US seizure of Iranian ship casts doubt over Islamabad talks

Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated after Washington seized an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, a move that has cast uncertainty over planned diplomatic talks in Islamabad.

Tehran signalled it has no intention of entering a new round of negotiations, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei accusing the US of breaching ceasefire conditions and pointing to previous military actions during earlier talks.

The US said its forces intercepted the vessel after it attempted to evade a blockade on Iranian ports, while Iran’s military condemned the operation as “armed piracy” and warned of retaliation.

China has also voiced concern, describing the incident as a “forced interception” and urging all parties to avoid further escalation and ensure safe passage through the strategically vital waterway.

Analysts told Al Jazeera the seizure risks derailing any progress toward dialogue, with Professor Amin Saikal stating the move could undermine efforts to reach a resolution, especially as both sides face mounting pressure ahead of a looming ceasefire deadline. Meanwhile, uncertainty remains over whether US officials will proceed to Pakistan, despite earlier indications from President Donald Trump that a delegation would travel for potential talks, as Islamabad tightens security across the capital in anticipation.