Iran signals diplomacy ‘never ends’ as talks stall, casualties mount

Iran has struck a cautious but steady tone after high-stakes talks in Islamabad failed to produce a breakthrough, insisting that diplomatic efforts remain far from over even as tensions simmer in the region.

Foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said negotiations with the United States had faltered over “two or three key issues”, without disclosing specifics. Despite the setback, he made clear that Tehran is not closing the door.

“Diplomacy never ends,” Baqaei said, describing it as a critical tool to secure and protect national interests. He added that consultations with Pakistan and other “friendly and neighbouring countries” would continue.

The remarks came shortly after delegations from both sides departed Islamabad. The Iranian team, led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, left the Pakistani capital early, followed by the US delegation that included Vice-President JD Vance.

While both sides acknowledged some progress, deep divisions remain. Washington has pointed to Iran’s reluctance to commit to abandoning nuclear weapons ambitions as a major sticking point. Tehran, however, signalled that expecting a deal in a single round of talks was unrealistic.

Behind the diplomatic language lies a far more urgent backdrop. Iran says the human cost of recent US-Israeli attacks continues to climb sharply. According to emergency services chief Jafar Miadfar, more than 2,100 children have been wounded, including dozens under the age of five. Thousands of women are also among the injured, with the heaviest toll reported in provinces such as Tehran, Khuzestan and Isfahan.

The stalled negotiations come at a fragile moment. A temporary ceasefire remains in place, but uncertainty looms over what happens next. Analysts note that past efforts, including the landmark Iran nuclear deal, took years of sustained engagement to materialise.

Adding to the uncertainty is the silence from Donald Trump following the talks. While US officials suggested a proposal is still on the table, there has been no direct signal from Trump on whether Washington is prepared to adjust its position or escalate pressure.

For now, diplomacy appears paused rather than ended. With the ceasefire still holding and regional players urging restraint, the coming days could prove decisive in determining whether negotiations resume or tensions slide back toward confrontation.