US President Donald Trump has said that the United States does not have a “Plan B” if negotiations with Iran fail. His statement came as top officials from both nations met in Islamabad to find a way to end the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
He made this remark while responding to questions about what the US would do if talks collapse or if Iran refuses to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
“You don’t need a backup plan. Their military is defeated. We have integrated everything. They have very few missiles. They have very few manufacturing capabilities. We have hit them very hard. Our military is amazing; the job they have done,” the US president told reporters this morning.
US-Iran Conflict Update: Military Build-Up Continues Despite Ceasefire
Even with a temporary two-week ceasefire in place, reports suggest that the United States has increased its military presence in the Middle East. The pause in fighting has brought limited relief after weeks of intense missile attacks in the Gulf region.
The White House confirmed that the high-level talks in Pakistan are scheduled to begin Saturday morning (local time), raising hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough.
Iran Delegation in Islamabad: Key Leaders Attend Peace Talks
The Iranian team, led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, arrived in Islamabad for the discussions. The delegation also includes Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, according to Pakistan’s foreign ministry. They were welcomed by senior Pakistani officials, including Ishaq Dar and Army chief Asim Munir.
US Delegation Led by JD Vance Issues Warning to Tehran
US Vice President JD Vance is leading the American side in the talks. Before leaving Paris, he cautioned Iran against testing Washington’s patience during negotiations.
“If they try and play us, then they’re gonna find that the negotiating team is not that receptive,” he said.
US vs Iran Peace Talks: Key Differences in Negotiation Terms
The two countries have already shown clear differences in their demands. The Trump administration has reportedly created a 15-point framework that asks Iran to give up its highly enriched uranium and accept limits on its military strength.
In response, Iran has proposed a 10-point plan that includes demands for compensation and recognition of its authority over the Strait of Hormuz.
Middle East Tensions 2026: Israel-Lebanon Talks Next
Meanwhile, tensions continue in other parts of the region. Lebanon and Israel are preparing for separate talks next week.
A brief pause in violence has provided some relief after heavy strikes that had earlier threatened to derail the US-Iran negotiations. However, the overall situation remains uncertain, with peace depending heavily on the outcome of the ongoing discussions.