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Tensions flickered like a faulty signal light Sunday as Iran denied it would join a new round of negotiations with the United States, casting doubt over whether us iran talks to resume on monday will proceed as planned.

Iran’s state-run Islamic Republic News Agency reported the denial without citing a specific source, directly contradicting earlier remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump, who said American negotiators were en route to Islamabad for renewed talks.

According to IRNA, Tehran’s refusal stems from what it described as Washington’s “excessive demands,” shifting positions, and the ongoing naval blockade—factors it says violate the fragile ceasefire.

Trump Issues Stark Warning Ahead of Talks

Hours before Iran’s denial surfaced, Trump painted a very different picture, announcing that U.S. representatives would arrive in Pakistan’s capital by Monday evening.

“My Representatives are going to Islamabad, Pakistan — They will be there tomorrow evening, for Negotiations,” he posted on Truth Social.

But the diplomatic tone quickly sharpened into a warning. Trump said failure to reach an agreement could trigger sweeping U.S. strikes.

“We’re offering a very fair and reasonable deal,” he wrote, adding that if rejected, the U.S. would target Iran’s critical infrastructure. “NO MORE MR. NICE GUY!”

Delegation Uncertainty Adds to Confusion

Two senior U.S. officials said Vice President JD Vance was expected to lead the delegation, alongside envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.

Yet in a separate interview, Trump indicated Vance might not attend due to security concerns, adding another layer of uncertainty to already fragile diplomacy.

Strait of Hormuz Standoff Raises Stakes

The diplomatic confusion unfolds against a volatile backdrop in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global oil supplies.

Iran has restricted passage for foreign vessels since U.S. and Israeli strikes on Feb. 28. Although Tehran briefly signaled it would reopen the waterway, it reversed course after Trump refused to lift a U.S. blockade on Iranian ports.

“Iran decided to fire bullets yesterday in the Strait of Hormuz — a total violation of our ceasefire agreement,” Trump said.

Gunfire incidents involving Iranian Revolutionary Guard boats targeting vessels have further heightened tensions, even as crews escaped unharmed.

The disruption has rattled global markets, with oil prices swinging sharply amid fears of a prolonged supply shock. Before the conflict, roughly one-fifth of the world’s crude passed through the strait.