Iran Saw Deal Near Before U.S. Envoy Left Pakistan Talks

Iran officials and other participants said they believed a framework to end fighting was within reach Sunday morning but were caught off guard when U.S. negotiator JD Vance abruptly left talks in Pakistan.

U.S. and Iranian delegations disagreed over limits on uranium enrichment. U.S. negotiators proposed a 20-year pause on enrichment. Iranian officials proposed a moratorium of single-digit years and asked to down-blend existing enriched uranium so it can be used in civilian reactors. The two sides also debated whether Iran would give up its current stockpile or convert it to lower-enriched material.

Teams met over the weekend with mediators from Pakistan, Egypt and Turkey working to bridge remaining gaps before a ceasefire set to expire on April 21. A U.S. official said Washington remains engaged in negotiations despite Vance's departure.

A source familiar with the talks described the press conference around Vance's exit as “provocative,” and said Iranian participants were angered by its timing and publicity.

Turkey's foreign minister said an extension of the ceasefire of 45 to 60 days could be considered, which diplomats say would affect markets if it allows reopening of maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices fell on early reports of progress and the possibility of a ceasefire extension.

Negotiators are discussing a broader package that could include release of Iranian funds, easing of some sanctions, guarantees related to regional conflicts including Lebanon, and assurances concerning Iran's missile program. Officials said any agreement would require detailed verification measures and political approvals in capitals before taking effect.

Participants described the talks as fragile and time-sensitive. Mediators continued shuttle diplomacy to try to narrow technical language and verification steps that would address U.S. demands for long-term constraints while preserving Iran's right to a civilian nuclear program.