US Vice President JD Vance concluded a 21-hour diplomatic effort in Islamabad aimed at resolving tensions between the United States and Iran without reaching an agreement. Vance cited shortcomings and blamed Iran for the impasse, as Tehran refused to commit to not pursuing nuclear weapons. This failure comes amid a backdrop of escalating military actions, with over 1,700 civilians reported killed and 13,000 targets hit across Iran. The crisis has severely impacted global energy security, particularly affecting the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route. Following the talks, President Donald Trump faces a critical decision on whether to resume negotiations or escalate military actions, including a recently announced naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, perceived as a potential act of war. The talks were marred by confusion and a lack of experienced diplomats, highlighting the complexities of US-Iran relations and the challenges ahead for future negotiations.