By Our Correspondent

National News – Iran has said it will not attend planned talks with the United States in Pakistan, according to state media reports on Monday, just days before a fragile Middle East ceasefire is set to expire.

The decision follows escalating tensions triggered by a US naval blockade of Iranian ports and a recent confrontation at sea.

Iranian officials cited “unfavourable conditions” and unresolved disputes as key reasons for declining participation in the negotiations.

The standoff intensified after a US destroyer intercepted and seized an Iranian cargo vessel, Touska, on Sunday, alleging it violated sanctions and attempted to breach the blockade.

In response, Tehran warned of imminent retaliation, reportedly deploying drones toward US naval assets in the region.

Iranian authorities described the action as “armed piracy,” further worsening diplomatic relations.

The planned talks, scheduled to take place in Islamabad, were expected to address critical issues, including Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile and ongoing military tensions.

However, Iranian state outlets, including IRIB and IRNA, emphasized that lifting the US blockade remains a precondition for any meaningful dialogue.

Officials also criticized what they called Washington’s “unrealistic demands,” noting that the current atmosphere does not support productive negotiations.

The crisis dates back to renewed hostilities sparked by US-Israeli strikes on Iran earlier this year, which led to Iran temporarily shutting down the Strait of Hormuz—a vital global oil transit route.

The closure disrupted international energy markets and heightened geopolitical risks.

Although briefly reopened, the strait has since faced renewed restrictions amid continued military threats.

US President Donald Trump has maintained that a “fair deal” is on the table, while also warning of further action if Iran refuses to cooperate.

A US delegation, reportedly led by senior officials, is still expected in Pakistan despite Iran’s absence.