Iran has accused the United States of obstructing a possible breakthrough agreement, citing “maximalism, shifting goalposts, and blockade tactics” as reasons for the failure. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed disappointment over the outcome of 21 hours of negotiations, stating that the proposed “Islamabad MoU” was within reach before talks collapsed.
Araghchi emphasized that both sides were on the brink of finalizing an agreement, underscoring the near success of the discussions before tensions escalated. Despite the setback, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian remains optimistic about the prospect of a diplomatic resolution with the US, urging a change in Washington’s approach to pave the way for an agreement.
In response to the failed negotiations, the United States announced the enforcement of a comprehensive maritime blockade on vessels entering or exiting Iranian ports starting April 13. The blockade, overseen by US Central Command, will apply to all maritime traffic in the region, including the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman, with the aim of exerting pressure on Iran over key issues such as its nuclear program.
