Hormuz Strait, nuclear rights: Iran blames ‘unreasonable’ United States demands for failed Islamabad talks

By GNN On Apr 12, 2026

Talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad collapsed after 21 hours of marathon negotiations, with both sides failing to reach an agreement on key issues.

Iranian state media blamed the breakdown on what it called “unreasonable” and “excessive” demands from Washington. Reports said major sticking points included the Strait of Hormuz, Tehran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, and broader regional security concerns.

State broadcaster IRIB said Iran’s delegation held intensive, round-the-clock discussions to safeguard national interests, but repeated proposals from Tehran failed to bridge differences with the US side. The talks ultimately ended without a breakthrough.

Iranian outlets also signalled there would be no change in the situation in the Strait of Hormuz unless the US agrees to what Tehran considers a “reasonable” deal, adding that Iran is not under pressure to rush negotiations. Sources cited by local media claimed the US was pushing for concessions it could not secure through military means — conditions Iran rejected as overly ambitious.

Foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei confirmed that no agreement was reached, though both sides exchanged multiple messages during the process. He said discussions covered a wide range of issues, including nuclear rights, war reparations, sanctions relief, and an end to regional hostilities.

The collapse came hours after US naval destroyers passed through the Strait of Hormuz despite repeated warnings from Tehran, underscoring ongoing tensions.

Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance said the American delegation was leaving Pakistan without a deal, though he left the door open for future engagement. He noted that while some progress had been made, the two sides were unable to agree on final terms.

Vance said Washington had presented what it considers its “best and final offer,” adding that the outcome now depends on whether Iran is willing to accept those terms.