Diplomatic efforts in Washington intensified on Tuesday as the United States considered another round of peace negotiations involving Iran, even as planned talks were ultimately postponed.
Vice President JD Vance was reportedly preparing to travel to Islamabad aboard Air Force Two for discussions linked to ongoing US–Iran tensions. However, the trip did not take place, and no official confirmation of Iran’s participation in the talks was received.
Instead, the White House later confirmed a delay in negotiations. President Donald Trump announced an extension of the existing ceasefire, which was due to expire on Wednesday, giving Iran additional time to present a unified proposal aimed at ending the conflict.
The ceasefire extension was also said to have been made following a request from Pakistan, which has played a mediating role between both sides.
Senior members of the US negotiating team, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, returned to Washington instead of proceeding to Islamabad, signalling uncertainty around the planned talks. Vice President Vance also held policy meetings at the White House as discussions continued over the next steps.
The decision marks the second time in recent weeks that the administration has stepped back from escalating military threats, opting instead to allow more time for diplomacy as the conflict continues.
While the extension provides additional room for negotiations, significant disagreements remain. Iran has maintained its position on key security issues, while the US continues to insist on limits related to nuclear activity and regional influence.
Analysts note that the situation remains fragile, with no clear timeline for resolution and ongoing uncertainty about whether both sides will return to the negotiating table.
