- By Nidhi Giri
- Mon, 20 Apr 2026 07:49 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
US-Iran Talks: Iran has refused to take part in the second round of negotiations with the United States in Pakistan, the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), Iran’s official state news agency has reported. This comes even as a US delegation, headed by Vice President JD Vance, is set to reach Islamabad on Monday.
IRNA's report stated that the Islamic regime decided to skip the second round of talks because of the US's excessive demands, which it cited as unreasonable and unrealistic. The IRNA report said, "US excessive demands and unreasonable, unrealistic requests, repeated changes in positions, continued contradictory statements" had so far hindered progress in talks.
Key Issues Between US And Iran Amid Confusion Over Round 2 Talks
Uranium Stockpiles
Amid the ongoing middle east crisis, US President Donald Trump last week claimed that Iran has agreed to hand over its enriched uranium stockpile, signalling that both sides may be nearing a potential peace deal. He said that both countries were "close" to a peace deal. "They've agreed to give us back the nuclear dust," Trump said while addressing reporters at the White House. However, Trump’s claims were rejected by a senior Iranian official. He stated that the demand was a “non-starter".
Uranium Enrichment
An important point in negotiations would be how long Iran should halt its uranium enrichment processes. According to CNN, US officials said that American negotiators suggested a 20-year suspension during the first round of talks held last weekend. Iran, however, pushed back with a five-year proposal. This was, however, declined by the US.
Iran has approximately 400 kg of 60 per cent enriched uranium, as reported by CNN. Apart from this, it has also demanded relief from sanctions.
Strait Of Hormuz
Since the outbreak of the West Asia war on February 28, strict restrictions have been imposed on the Strait Of Hormuz, affecting the world's most critical energy arteries. On Saturday, IRGC announced that Hormuz will remain closed. The statement came after the Iranian government signalled to open Hormuz amid global pressure on Friday. Responding to US blockade on Iran ports, Tehran on Sunday said that shipping restrictions will continue in the crucial waterway.