Iran Rejects Claims of Joining Second Round of Islamabad Talks

Iran has firmly rejected claims that it has agreed to participate in the second round of peace talks scheduled to be held in Islamabad, according to a recent report by Al Jazeera. The denial comes even as the United States maintains that the discussions are set to take place on Tuesday. Citing Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency, the report said Tehran strongly criticised what it described as “unjustified demands,” “unreasonable expectations,” and a “constantly shifting stance” by the United States. Iran also condemned the maritime blockade imposed by the US, stating that it constitutes a direct violation of the ceasefire agreement. In an official statement, Iran clarified that reports suggesting its participation in the second round of talks in Islamabad are inaccurate. It further alleged that such claims being circulated by the US are part of a “media game” and a broader “blame game” aimed at exerting pressure on Tehran. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, held a telephone conversation on Sunday with Iran’s President, Masoud Pezeshkian, to discuss the rising tensions in West Asia. Sharing details of the interaction on social media platform X, Sharif stated that he also briefed the Iranian leader about his recent discussions with leaders of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey. On the other hand, according to the Al Jazeera report, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright expressed confidence in the ongoing diplomatic efforts. He said that the United States is not far from reaching an agreement, indicating that a breakthrough could be achieved soon.