No date set for US-Iran talks as tensions persist over Hormuz, nuclear dispute

-- Iran insists on framework before next round of negotiations
-- Conflicting signals over Islamabad talks and timeline
-- Strait of Hormuz tensions resurface amid US blockade
-- Oil shipping disrupted despite brief reopening

TEHRAN: No date has been set for the next round of negotiations between Iran and the United States, with Tehran saying a framework of understanding must first be finalised before further talks can proceed.

The latest round of high-level talks — the most significant since 1979 — ended in Islamabad last weekend without an agreement, though both sides left the door open for continued diplomacy.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Türkiye, Iran’s deputy foreign minister Saeed Khatibzadeh said Tehran was focused on finalising a mutually acceptable framework to avoid failed negotiations that could trigger further escalation. He noted that while “significant progress” had been made, disagreements over US demands regarding Iran’s nuclear programme had prevented a breakthrough. He stressed that Iran would not accept any arrangement that placed it outside international law.

Despite US President Donald Trump suggesting that talks could resume soon, diplomats indicated logistical challenges made an immediate meeting in Islamabad unlikely. Iranian media also reported that Tehran had not yet agreed to a new round of talks, citing US “excessive demands” and a naval blockade of Iranian ports as major obstacles.

Tensions also continued around the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran had briefly allowed commercial shipping following a ceasefire linked to the Lebanon conflict but later reversed the move in response to what it called a US violation of the truce. Iranian officials warned of repercussions if Washington failed to honour ceasefire commitments.

Shipping through the strategic waterway remained volatile. While several oil and gas tankers managed to pass during a short reopening, others turned back amid uncertainty, and maritime security incidents were reported, including attacks on vessels. Iran later announced that control of the strait had returned to a “strict management” regime under its armed forces, requiring coordination for passage.

The instability has disrupted global energy flows, trapping vessels and driving fluctuations in oil markets. Analysts said shipping companies remained cautious, with some advising vessels to avoid the area due to unclear security conditions and potential mine threats.

Backchannel diplomacy, however, continues. Pakistani sources indicated that indirect exchanges between Washington and Tehran were ongoing, with hopes of reaching a preliminary memorandum of understanding before moving toward a comprehensive deal. Reports suggested that technical teams from both sides could meet in Islamabad soon, though no official confirmation has been issued.

Key sticking points remain, particularly over Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, and the handling of enriched uranium stockpiles. While the US has pushed for stricter limits and removal of highly enriched uranium, Iranian officials have denied any agreement on transferring such material abroad.

The developments come against the backdrop of a fragile ceasefire brokered on April 8 after weeks of conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran. With the truce nearing its expiry, uncertainty persists over whether negotiations can produce a lasting agreement or whether tensions could escalate once again.