President Trump Criticizes Iran's Leverage in Islamabad Talks Amid Strait of Hormuz Dispute
The Islamabad talks between Iran and the United States have hit a stalemate due to Iran's pre-conditions and President Trump's recent statements. Iran demands the withdrawal of all sanctions, the unfreezing of its assets, and recognition of its territorial rights over the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. delegation, supported by the UAE, argues that the Strait is an international waterway under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which allows freedom of navigation and overflight. However, Iran has not ratified UNCLOS and claims the Strait is within its territorial waters. President Trump has posted on Truth Social, accusing Iran of using international waterways for short-term extortion and stating that Iran has no cards left in the negotiations. The Iranian delegation has delayed its departure from Tehran, insisting on a simultaneous ceasefire in Lebanon. The talks are unlikely to proceed until trust is restored between the parties. 
