Speculation surrounding a potential breakthrough in US-Iran peace talks in Islamabad has diminished after US President Donald Trump canceled the planned visit of his envoys. Pakistan, which had positioned itself as a mediator, had locked down parts of Islamabad in anticipation of high-stakes negotiations. However, as the Iranian delegation departed and the US decided against sending its officials, restrictions began to ease, providing relief to local residents. Trump stated he did not want his envoys to undertake an '18-hour flight' to engage in discussions that he deemed unproductive. Despite the cancellation, Trump emphasized that the US holds all the cards in negotiations, allowing Iran to reach out at any time. The diplomatic efforts had begun with meetings on April 11, where both sides indicated progress, but no agreement was reached. Subsequent meetings were announced but ultimately did not materialize, leaving the prospects of direct US-Iran engagement clouded with uncertainty.