US–Iran talks face uncertainty as Tehran denies meeting plan

US negotiators are scheduled to travel to Pakistan on Saturday for potential talks aimed at ending the ongoing conflict involving Iran, but Iranian officials have denied plans to meet American representatives, highlighting continued uncertainty in diplomatic efforts.

According to the White House, US special envoy Steve Witkoff and former presidential adviser Jared Kushner are expected to depart for Islamabad for discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The talks are part of ongoing efforts to reach an agreement on ending a war that has reportedly killed thousands of civilians in Iran and Lebanon and disrupted global markets.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said Iran still has an opportunity to reach a deal, stressing that Tehran must abandon any pursuit of nuclear weapons in a verifiable manner. “Iran knows they still have an open window to choose wisely,” he said, adding that meaningful compliance could lead to an agreement.

However, Iranian officials have contradicted expectations of direct engagement. A spokesperson for Iran’s foreign ministry stated on social media platform X that Tehran does not plan to meet US representatives and that its concerns will instead be communicated through mediator Pakistan.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Islamabad on Friday, where he held meetings with Pakistani officials, including Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Meanwhile, US logistical and security teams have also been deployed in the Pakistani capital ahead of possible diplomatic engagement.

US President Donald Trump suggested Iran may present an offer to meet US demands, although details remain unclear. Washington has indicated that limited progress has been observed but emphasized that major gaps still remain.

The conflict has also disrupted global energy markets, with tensions in the Strait of Hormuz reducing oil shipments and pushing prices higher. Shipping activity through the strategic waterway has dropped sharply compared to pre-war levels, further raising concerns over global energy stability.

Despite diplomatic efforts, both sides remain divided, leaving the outcome of the proposed talks uncertain.