ISLAMABAD: Talks on Iran’s nuclear programme have been postponed, according to a British newspaper report, as Israel prepares to raise objections regarding the inclusion of Lebanon in any emerging agreement.
The development comes amid ongoing regional ceasefire arrangements and efforts to stabilise the situation following recent conflicts involving Iran, Israel, and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
A UK media outlet cited sources indicating that nuclear negotiations have been deferred to later stages, while Israel has expressed concerns over provisions related to Lebanon in proposed US-Iran understandings.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly conveyed these reservations directly to US President Donald Trump, focusing on both the postponement of core nuclear issues and the handling of Lebanon in the framework.
**Official Positions**
Iran has maintained that its nuclear programme remains for peaceful purposes and has pushed for sanctions relief in exchange for any concessions. Tehran has insisted on addressing immediate ceasefire and economic matters before deeper nuclear discussions.
The United States, under President Trump, has demanded significant rollbacks, including the removal or dilution of Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpile and limits on enrichment activities. Trump previously described certain Iranian proposals as insufficient.
Israel has continued operations against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, stating that the ceasefire with Iran does not fully extend to its actions against the Iranian-backed group.
**Key Details and Figures**
Iran’s stockpile of uranium enriched to near-weapons grade levels has been a central point of contention. Reports indicate Iran possesses significant quantities of 60% enriched uranium, which could be further processed.
Previous rounds of indirect talks, including those mediated in Oman and Geneva, saw limited progress on enrichment caps. The 2015 JCPOA had allowed enrichment up to 3.67%, a level Iran has exceeded in recent years.
The proposed framework under discussion includes a potential 60-day ceasefire extension and measures related to the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20% of global oil trade passes.
Israeli strikes in Lebanon have resulted in substantial casualties, with Lebanese health authorities reporting over 1,000 deaths in certain periods of escalated operations. Hezbollah remains a key actor with an estimated arsenal of tens of thousands of rockets.
**Background Context**
Tensions escalated after a series of Israeli and US strikes on Iranian nuclear-related sites in 2025 and early 2026. These actions targeted facilities at Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan, significantly affecting Iran’s enrichment capabilities.
Diplomatic efforts involving the E3 (UK, France, Germany), Oman, and other mediators have continued intermittently. Pakistan has hosted some related discussions, underlining its interest in regional stability given its own security concerns and ties with key players.
The current postponement reflects deep differences on sequencing: Iran seeks front-loading of de-escalation and sanctions relief, while the US and Israel prioritise irreversible nuclear limits.
**Reactions and Impact**
The delay has drawn cautious responses from Gulf states and European capitals, many of which urge swift resumption of talks to prevent further escalation. Markets have shown sensitivity, with oil prices fluctuating on news of potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Regional analysts note that prolonged uncertainty could affect broader Middle East dynamics, including Pakistan’s energy imports and trade routes.
**Strategic Implications**
The situation highlights the complex linkage between Iran’s nuclear ambitions, proxy networks in Lebanon, and great power diplomacy. Progress on one front often depends on concessions on the other.
Future developments may hinge on upcoming rounds of indirect engagement and whether Israel’s security concerns regarding Hezbollah can be addressed alongside nuclear restraints. Any final agreement would likely require balancing verification mechanisms with sanctions relief timelines.
Observers will watch closely for signals from Washington, Tehran, and Jerusalem on whether the postponed talks can yield a structured pathway forward or risk renewed confrontation.