From Deadlock to Dialogue? US Considers Fresh Iran Talks After Islamabad Failure

The United States is considering another in-person meeting with Iranian officials as the current ceasefire nears its expiry. Officials are assessing whether renewed direct talks could support fragile negotiations. No final green light has been given, but planning discussions are underway within the US administration.

Officials are examining potential dates and cities for a possible meeting, while stressing that planning remains preliminary. Decisions depend on how contacts with Iran and regional mediators develop over the coming days. One source, quoted by CNN, said, "We need to be prepared to stand something up quickly should things head in that direction."

US-Iran ceasefire talks and Islamabad negotiations

The most recent major interaction occurred in Islamabad on April 11, during nearly 21 hours of Pakistan-mediated discussions. Those talks aimed to secure a ceasefire arrangement in the Middle East. Speaking at a press briefing in Islamabad, US Vice President JD Vance said both sides failed to finalise any agreement despite the lengthy session.

That Islamabad round followed weeks of diplomatic outreach involving senior US representatives and intermediaries from Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt and Oman. A regional source suggested another round of engagement is still possible. Turkey is reported to be working actively to reduce tensions and help narrow differences between Washington and Tehran.

US-Iran ceasefire talks and future meeting venues

Before Islamabad was chosen for the April meeting, officials had examined several locations, including Geneva, Vienna and Istanbul. Those earlier options are again under review as planners weigh where a new session might occur. Sources said Geneva and Islamabad are currently the most prominent venues under consideration for any future talks.

People familiar with the process said the US administration remains cautiously optimistic about diplomatic prospects, despite the lack of a breakthrough in Islamabad. If talks move forward, both sides could agree to prolong the existing ceasefire. An extension would create additional time for negotiators to work on detailed arrangements.

Contacts between Washington and Tehran have not stopped since the Islamabad meeting. A US official confirmed continuing discussions aimed at securing an understanding. The official, quoted by CNN, said, "There is continued engagement between the US and Iran and forward motion on trying to get an agreement."

Overall, plans for another face-to-face meeting are still at an early stage, with no firm schedule. The eventual choice of venue and any possible ceasefire extension will depend on the pace of current diplomacy. Developments in regional mediation efforts over the next few days are expected to shape the next steps.