Mohammad Marandi on Talks with US: Iran Will Not Give Up Its Sovereignty and Rights

Apr 15, 2026 | The first peace talks between the US and Iran, held in Islamabad, Pakistan from April 11 to 12, ended with no agreement reached. Before departing Islamabad, the head of the US delegation, Vice President JD Vance, told the media they "could not get to a situation where the Iranians were willing to accept our terms."

US President Donald Trump hinted the two sides could resume talks within this week.

Seyed Mohammad Marandi, professor at the University of Tehran, was among the Iranian delegation in Islamabad. In an interview with CGTN's Li Jingjing, he shared his observations, and explained why the terms and conditions the US side offered was unacceptable to Iran.


It sounds to me as if JD Vance had a temper tantrum because he couldn't get his own way! — © Mark Alexander