Iranian Negotiator Signals Openness to Further Talks as U.S.-Iran Deal Eludes

High-stakes peace talks between the United States and Iran have ended without an immediate agreement, but both sides have left the door open for continued diplomacy. The 21-hour negotiation session, held in Pakistan and led by U.S. Vice President JD Vance and senior Iranian official Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, concluded early Sunday amid lingering disagreements.

Speaking to reporters before departing Islamabad, Vance stated that Iran had decided not to accept the U.S. proposal. “We are leaving here with a very simple proposal — our final and best offer. We will see whether the Iranians accept it,” he said, underscoring Washington’s position while keeping diplomatic channels open.

Despite the lack of a breakthrough, signals from Tehran suggest that negotiations may not be over. Ghalibaf indicated that future discussions remain possible, offering a cautious sense of optimism at a time when the fragile ceasefire hangs in the balance.

The talks come as both nations attempt to bring an end to escalating tensions, yet analysts note that deep-rooted differences — particularly over political conditions and strategic demands — make a swift resolution unlikely. Former Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif criticized the U.S. approach, accusing Washington of attempting to impose conditions on Tehran rather than seeking a balanced agreement.

With a two-week ceasefire set to expire on April 21, uncertainty looms over the next steps. However, neither side has ruled out another round of negotiations before the deadline, raising hopes that diplomacy could still prevent a further escalation of conflict.