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ConflictsIran

Iran war: What's next after Islamabad talks fail?

04:05

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April 13, 2026

The United States and Iran did not reach a deal in Islamabad, but, given years of hostilities between the two sides, the talks were never likely to be a success. What are the main sticking points, and will the fragile ceasefire hold?

After 21 hours of marathon peace talks in Islamabad, Iran's Parliament SpeakerMohammad Bagher Qalibaf said that the US side "ultimately failed to gain the trust of the Iranian delegation in this round of negotiations."

Before leaving Pakistan, US Vice President JD Vance said: "We leave here with a very simple proposal, a method of understanding that is our final and best offer. We'll see if the Iranians accept it."

However, just hours later, President Donald Trump announced a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Will his threat derail the two-week ceasefire that is set to end on April 22?

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