'Encouraging Progress' in US-Iran Talks in Switzerland
The first round of US-Iran talks in Switzerland has yielded 'encouraging progress,' according to mediators from Qatar and Pakistan. A committee has been formed to develop a roadmap for a final agreement within 60 days.
The first round of US-Iran talks aimed at reaching a comprehensive peace agreement began Sunday, June 21, in Switzerland. Mediators Qatar and Pakistan announced 'encouraging progress' in a joint statement early Monday. A joint committee has been established to develop a roadmap for a final agreement within 60 days.
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that 'significant progress' has been made toward ending the conflict in Lebanon. The talks follow a previous agreement signed Wednesday between the US and Iran to end the war across all fronts in the Middle East, including Lebanon. That agreement also included lifting the US blockade of Iranian ports and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz 'free of charge for only 60 days.' Iran also committed not to acquire or develop nuclear weapons.
However, on Saturday Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz again, citing Israeli attacks on Lebanon as a violation of the agreement.
The US delegation in Switzerland is led by Vice President James David Vance and envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Iran's delegation includes Foreign Minister Araghchi, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, as well as central bank and oil sector officials.
Before the talks, US President Donald Trump warned Iran to immediately stop its 'well-paid allies' in Lebanon or face a 'very heavy' US attack. Qalibaf responded that threats do not affect Tehran: 'No matter how much they talk, we are the ones who act.'
Although the intensity of fighting has decreased, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that the Israeli army will remain in southern Lebanon as long as necessary to protect the country's north.
