NYT: US-Iran Talks on Uranium Enrichment Deadline Collapse, Future Negotiations Planned

The New York Times reported on April 13 that US and Iranian officials confirmed the collapse of weekend talks due to a wide disparity in proposed durations for suspending uranium enrichment activities. Iran suggested a 5-year halt, while the Trump administration demanded 20 years, rejecting Iran's offer. US Vice President JD Vance led the delegation to Islamabad, Pakistan, for the talks. He stated on Fox News that the US team withdrew because Iranian negotiators lacked the authority to make decisions, requiring them to return to Tehran for approval from the Supreme Leader or other officials. Following the failure to reach an agreement, US President Donald Trump ordered US warships in the Persian Gulf to block Iranian vessels from entering or exiting Iranian ports, effective April 13, 10 AM ET. European allies did not join this action, and the blockade faces operational challenges. Despite the breakdown, officials indicated that discussions for a second face-to-face meeting have taken place, though no details were provided. Vance emphasized that the ball is now in Iran's court, and Trump is open to normalizing US-Iran relations if Iran accepts key US proposals.