Iran's Tasnim news agency, citing informed sources, reported that the Islamic Republic informed the United States through the Pakistani mediator that its negotiating delegation would not attend the second round of talks in Islamabad on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. This Iranian refusal comes amid the continued U.S. naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and Washington's seizure of an Iranian cargo ship suspected of carrying military goods.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf affirmed that his country is on high alert and rejects external pressures, emphasizing that any negotiations must take place in an atmosphere free from threats and blockades. Meanwhile, Iran's Revolutionary Guard forces announced their readiness to create "shocking developments" beyond the calculations of the United States and Israel, in a clear indication of potential unexpected military escalation.

Strategic analyses suggest that Tehran seeks to buy more time to reposition its forces and strengthen its air and missile defenses before any new round of negotiations. Observers also note that the Iranian refusal aims to raise the ceiling of demands in any potential agreement, particularly regarding the lifting of economic sanctions and ending the naval blockade. In response, the White House continues to affirm that President Trump has not set a deadline for Iran and is awaiting a unified response from Iranian leadership.