#IranRejectsSecondRoundTalks* is trending because Iran officially refused to join the second round of peace talks with the US.
*What happened:*
On Sunday, April 19, 2026, Iran’s state news agency IRNA announced it would not attend the second round of talks. This came hours after President Trump said US envoys were heading to Pakistan Monday to negotiate, warning Iran to accept terms or face strikes.
*Why Iran rejected — according to IRNA:*
1. *“Excessive demands, unrealistic expectations”* from Washington
2. *“Constant shifts in stance, repeated contradictions”* in the US position
3. *Naval blockade* — Iran says the ongoing US naval blockade in the Gulf violates the ceasefire
*The US position:*
Trump posted on Truth Social that the US was offering a “very fair and reasonable DEAL” and threatened to “knock out every single Power Plant, and every single Bridge, in Iran” if they refuse. The US delegation was supposed to include VP JD Vance, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner.
*Background:*
- *First round*: Held April 15, 2026 in Islamabad, lasted 21 hours but ended without agreement
- *Ceasefire*: A 2-week truce began April 8 and expires April 22, 2026
- *Strait of Hormuz*: Still closed, disrupting shipping
Pakistan’s role:
Talks were planned in Islamabad with Pakistan mediating. But Pakistan’s foreign ministry said Thursday that no dates had been set for a second round.
*Current situation:*
With the ceasefire ending in 2 days, talks rejected, and the strait still shut, tensions are high. Reuters noted this could trigger an oil price surge when markets reopen.