Tehran, Iran – In a significant development, Iranian President Masoud Pezhakian on Sunday held crucial discussions with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, focusing on pressing regional issues and the stalled negotiations with the United States.
According to reports from the Iranian Presidency, President Pezhakian vehemently criticized the United States’ continued “non-commitment and provocative actions,” specifically highlighting the illegal naval blockade imposed on Iran. He unequivocally labeled this aggressive act as a blatant violation of existing ceasefire understandings and international law, underscoring the severe implications for regional stability.
The Iranian President reiterated Tehran’s unwavering resolve to defend its sovereignty and national interests against any potential escalation involving the United States or the Zionist regime. He issued a stark warning that persistent tensions, fueled by such hostile actions, could inevitably lead to broader and unpredictable consequences for both regional and global security.
Prime Minister Sharif, for his part, briefed President Pezhakian on his recent diplomatic consultations with various regional nations, indicating ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions.
Meanwhile, amidst these critical discussions, US President Donald Trump announced Washington’s intention to dispatch Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff to Pakistan to resume talks with Iran. Witkoff is reportedly expected in Islamabad on April 20, ahead of discussions scheduled for Tuesday, with Jared Kushner also slated to participate. Vice President JD Vance will remain involved remotely.
However, Tasnim News Agency, a prominent Iranian outlet, reported that Tehran has yet to make a decision regarding sending a negotiating team. The agency emphasized that talks are highly unlikely to proceed as long as the unjust US naval blockade against Iranian ports remains in effect, highlighting the fundamental obstacle to any meaningful dialogue.
The current impasse follows a two-week ceasefire agreed upon by Iran and the United States on April 8, which was intended to pave the way for a round of talks in Islamabad. Those discussions, unfortunately, concluded without any tangible results. Despite no official declaration of renewed hostilities, tensions remain critically high, primarily due to the United States’ unilateral and coercive imposition of a naval blockade on Iranian ports, an act that continues to undermine trust and stability.
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