U.S. negotiators called off a planned trip to Pakistan last week, with President Trump declaring, “We have all the cards” after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi returned to Islamabad. The abrupt cancellation underscores stalled efforts to end the 2026 Middle East conflict, with Trump insisting Iran abandon its nuclear program. Meanwhile, Araghchi met Pakistani officials, hinting at Iran’s push for a “workable framework” to end hostilities, though details remain undisclosed.

The talks face critical hurdles: Iran’s uranium enrichment program and control of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran claims a right to enrich fuel under the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, while the U.S. demands dismantling stockpiles. Iran possesses 11 tons of uranium, enough to build up to 100 nuclear weapons—far surpassing Israel’s arsenal. Simultaneously, both nations blockade the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil route, seizing vessels accused of violating sanctions.

Negotiation styles clash as Trump’s “coercive diplomacy” meets Iran’s “resilience and delay,” per former negotiator Robert Malley. Trump’s demand for immediate concessions contrasts with Iran’s “long-game” strategy, prolonging talks that previously spanned two years. The president’s reference to “nuclear dust” downplays Iran’s near-bomb-grade uranium stockpiles, a volatile substance stored in canisters, not powder.

With Pakistan mediating and tensions simmering, the Strait of Hormuz blockade and uranium disputes remain unresolved. Analysts warn that without compromise, the war could escalate, impacting global oil markets and regional stability. The U.S. insists its pressure campaign will force Iran to negotiate, but Tehran shows no signs of yielding on core issues.