US-Iran Peace Talks Begin in Switzerland

Peace talks between the United States and Iran commenced in Switzerland on Sunday, June 21, 2026, according to Qatar, which is mediating along with Pakistan. Qatar's Foreign Ministry announced the start of the "Lake Lucerne Summit" and the first meeting of a high-level committee comprising representatives from the US, Iran, Qatar, and Pakistan.

Earlier this week, the US and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding that stipulates ending the war in the Middle East on all fronts, including Lebanon, lifting the US blockade of Iranian ports, and reopening the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days. The agreement also includes Iran's commitment not to acquire or develop nuclear weapons and sets the stage for 60 days of detailed negotiations on Iran's nuclear program and sanctions relief.

However, on Saturday, Iran announced it was closing the Strait of Hormuz again in response to Israeli attacks on Lebanon, calling it a violation of the agreement.

The US delegation is led by Vice President J.D. Vance, along with envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Iran's delegation includes Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Kalibaf, and officials from the central bank and oil sector.

Iran's Foreign Ministry cautioned against expectations that the talks would extend beyond today. A spokesman said that the talks would begin with bilateral meetings between Iran and the mediating countries, followed by discussions with the US delegation in the afternoon. Working groups at the expert level are also planned to address issues such as unfreezing Iranian bank accounts and possible sanctions relief.

The talks were originally scheduled for Friday but were postponed due to renewed clashes in Lebanon.