President Trump has canceled the trip by his envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Islamabad, citing the Iranian position in peace negotiations. He told Axios the decision came because of Tehran's current stance, calling the 18-hour flight unnecessary.
"We can do it just as well by telephone," Trump said, adding that "the Iranians can call us if they want." The move signals a shift in diplomatic strategy, though the president stopped short of resuming military action. When asked if cancellation meant a return to war, he replied: "No. It doesn't mean that. We haven't thought about it yet."
Trump framed the decision as a matter of leverage, stating: "We have all the cards. We are not going to go there to sit around talking about nothing." The comment underscores the administration's frustration with the pace and direction of the talks.
The envoys were originally slated to travel to Islamabad for discussions that had not been publicly detailed beyond their connection to the Iranian nuclear file. The abrupt cancellation leaves the diplomatic channel in limbo, with no new dates announced.
Critics argue the move could further isolate the U.S. in the region and weaken prospects for a negotiated settlement. The Iranian government has not yet responded to Trump's remarks.