Iran Rejects US Peace Talks Amid Rising Tensions and Ceasefire Expiry
Iran has declined to participate in a second round of peace talks with the United States, as reported by the Islamic Republic News Agency. The refusal follows US President Donald Trump's threats to target Iranian infrastructure if a deal is not reached. Iran's decision is attributed to perceived excessive demands from Washington, including the lifting of sanctions and the end of the US naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. The current ceasefire between the two nations is set to expire on Wednesday. A US delegation, initially led by Vice President JD Vance, was expected to travel to Pakistan for negotiations, but uncertainty surrounds Iran's attendance. The diplomatic efforts come after a previous round of talks in April ended without a breakthrough.
Published 1 day ago • 19 Apr 2026, 10:53 PM IST