Iran has reaffirmed its commitment to diplomacy following the conclusion of high-stakes negotiations with the United States in Islamabad, despite the talks ending without an agreement.
Describing the discussions as complex and conducted in an atmosphere of mistrust, Esmaeil Baqaei said it was unrealistic to expect a breakthrough in just one round of negotiations.
“Diplomacy never ends,” Baqaei emphasized, adding that dialogue remains a crucial tool for safeguarding national interests in both times of war and peace.
The marathon talks, which lasted around 21 hours, marked the highest-level engagement between Washington and Tehran since the Iranian Revolution. They came after weeks of conflict triggered by attacks launched on February 28, which escalated tensions across the Middle East and disrupted global markets.
The US delegation, led by JD Vance, stated that it had presented Iran with its “final and best offer” before concluding the session.
On the Iranian side, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said that while the US appeared to understand Iran’s position, it ultimately failed to gain Tehran’s trust — a key obstacle in reaching any agreement.
Baqaei further noted that the outcome of future negotiations would depend on the seriousness and good faith of the US, as well as its willingness to recognize Iran’s legitimate rights and interests.
He also highlighted the growing complexity of the talks, pointing to new issues such as control of the Strait of Hormuz, which have added further challenges to an already difficult negotiation process.
Despite the lack of a breakthrough, both sides have signaled that dialogue could continue, leaving open the possibility of future talks aimed at stabilizing the region and easing global economic pressures.
