New Delhi - April 25, 2026 - US President Donald Trump abruptly cancelled a planned diplomatic mission to Pakistan on Saturday, scrapping a trip by senior envoys who were meant to facilitate peace talks with Iran in Islamabad.
The decision to halt the visit came as Trump criticized the Iranian leadership, stating that "nobody knows who is in charge," and asserted that the United States holds the upper hand in any potential negotiations.
"I just cancelled the trip of my representatives going to Islamabad, Pakistan, to meet with the Iranians. Too much time wasted on traveling, too much work!" Trump posted on Truth Social.
The president added: "Also, we have all the cards, they have none! If they want to talk, all they have to do is call!!!"
High-Profile Envoys Stand Down
Following Trump's directive, top US diplomats including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner immediately cancelled their travel arrangements to Pakistan.
The cancellation significantly undermines Pakistan's diplomatic efforts to serve as a mediator between Washington and Tehran.
Iranian Delegation Departs
Trump's announcement came shortly after an Iranian delegation led by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi departed Islamabad on Saturday evening, following meetings with Pakistani leadership.
The Iranian delegation had reportedly submitted an "official list of demands" to Pakistani officials regarding US and Israeli positions for resolving Middle Eastern issues.
Araghchi stated that the international community had yet to see if the US was "truly serious about diplomacy."
The delegation is now expected to visit Oman and Russia, further diminishing hopes for Pakistan to host additional talks between the two nations.
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