TEHRAN/ISLAMABAD: Iranian authorities have stated that the anticipated Islamabad memorandum will not be signed on Sunday, dampening expectations of an immediate breakthrough in negotiations connected to discussions between Tehran and Washington.
Speaking to state media, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said no final decision had been made regarding the timing of the agreement. While he did not exclude the possibility of a signing in the near future, he stressed that uncertainty remains due to unresolved issues and the cautious approach of the parties involved.
The announcement follows a series of mixed signals surrounding a proposed framework that has been linked to efforts aimed at easing tensions between the United States and Iran. Although some officials have suggested that negotiations are approaching a decisive stage, Tehran has indicated that important matters are still under discussion.
Baghaei further revealed that Iranian negotiators have no plans to travel to Geneva or any other international venue in the coming days, suggesting that a new round of face-to-face talks is not currently scheduled.
Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had expressed optimism about the progress of negotiations, saying that both sides had reached broad understanding on a peace framework after months of heightened tensions. He noted that Pakistan was preparing for a possible electronic signing process and described the developments as a significant step toward a formal agreement.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also voiced confidence in the diplomatic process, indicating that encouraging developments could emerge soon and confirming Pakistan’s participation in any future signing ceremony.
Meanwhile, Iranian political leaders have continued to project a firm position on national security issues. Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf reiterated Iran’s determination to defend its interests, declaring that the country would remain steadfast despite external pressure and ongoing regional challenges.
The backdrop to the negotiations remains a period of prolonged instability marked by military confrontations, retaliatory strikes, and escalating tensions across several parts of the Middle East. These developments have had broader implications for regional security, trade routes, and economic activity.
Reports from diplomatic sources suggest that discussions have covered topics including sanctions relief, maritime access, regional security arrangements, and the future of trade restrictions. However, Tehran maintains that key concerns particularly those related to its nuclear programme and strategic capabilities have yet to be fully resolved.
Despite differing public statements from various stakeholders, officials on all sides acknowledge that diplomatic engagement continues. For now, however, there is no confirmed date for the signing of the Islamabad memorandum.
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