Talks Collapse in Pakistan: US-Iran Nuclear Deal Falls Apart as American Warships Rush to Clear Mines in Strait of Hormuz

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In a dramatic turn that has sent shockwaves through global markets and raised fresh fears of renewed conflict, the landmark direct talks between the United States and Iran collapsed early Sunday morning in Pakistan after more than 21 hours of intense, face-to-face negotiations.

These were the first high-level, in-person discussions between the two nations since the 1979 Islamic Revolution — a rare diplomatic opening hosted by Pakistan that many hoped could stabilize the fragile two-week ceasefire and ease tensions over Iran’s nuclear program and control of the vital Strait of Hormuz.

But instead of a breakthrough, the marathon session at Islamabad’s Serena Hotel ended in deadlock.

Vice President J.D. Vance, who led the U.S. delegation, delivered a blunt assessment before departing: Iran had rejected America’s “final and best offer,” particularly on key demands that Tehran abandon any path to a nuclear weapon.

“That’s the good news — we negotiated seriously,” Vance told reporters. “The bad news is that we have not reached an agreement. And I think that’s bad news for Iran much more than it’s bad news for the United States.”

While the talks unfolded, a parallel military operation was already underway at sea. Two U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyers — the USS Frank E. Peterson Jr. and USS Michael Murphy — began clearing mines reportedly laid by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow chokepoint through which nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply normally flows.

Underwater drones are expected to join the effort soon to help reopen the waterway safely. The move comes as oil prices have already climbed above $100 per barrel amid fears of prolonged disruption.

Iran Points Finger at U.S. and Israel

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi responded sharply, accusing the United States of negotiating in bad faith and allowing Israeli interests to derail the process.

“We are disappointed with how the US behaved,” Araghchi said. “Netanyahu’s call to Vance during the meeting shifted the focus from US-Iran negotiations to Israel’s interests. The U.S. tried to achieve at the negotiating table what it could not achieve through war.”

He claimed the U.S. had pushed unrealistic demands, including conditions tied to Israeli nuclear facilities, while rejecting Iranian proposals such as jointly operating the Strait of Hormuz. Araghchi described Vance’s pre-departure press conference as “unnecessary” and insisted Iran came to the table in good faith.

“We are committed and prepared to safeguard our nation’s interest and sovereignty,” he added.

Pakistani officials expressed disappointment but said they would keep mediation channels open. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar urged both sides to respect the existing ceasefire and confirmed that efforts to continue dialogue would persist.

The surprise inclusion of Saudi Arabia’s finance minister in Islamabad during the talks underscored the high economic stakes for Gulf nations heavily invested in regional stability and energy markets.

What Happens Next?

Analysts warn that the collapse significantly heightens risks to the fragile April 8 ceasefire. With no agreement on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, the partial closure of the Strait of Hormuz, or broader regional proxy conflicts, the coming days could prove critical.

Oil markets reacted swiftly to the news, reflecting global anxiety over potential renewed disruptions to energy supplies.

Pakistan earned widespread praise for pulling off the unexpected 21-hour mediation — a diplomatic feat no one saw coming just weeks ago. Yet as both delegations left Islamabad, the big question remains: Can the ceasefire hold, or will naval operations and unresolved disputes push the region back toward open conflict?

This story is developing rapidly. Stay tuned for updates.