Iran and the United States are set to begin a new round of negotiations in Switzerland aimed at advancing a recently signed interim agreement.
Senior Iranian officials and US Vice President JD Vance arrived in Switzerland ahead of the discussions, which are expected to focus on unresolved issues surrounding Iran`s nuclear programme and regional security.
Before departing for Europe, Vance said the negotiations would concentrate on two key priorities: addressing concerns over Tehran`s nuclear activities and preserving a ceasefire arrangement related to the fighting in Lebanon.
The latest diplomatic push comes after planned talks were delayed following a surge in violence in southern Lebanon. Although a renewed ceasefire was later announced, clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters have continued, with both sides accusing each other of violating the truce.
Adding to the uncertainty, Iran announced fresh restrictions on maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, citing what it described as continued Israeli military actions and Washington`s failure to ensure compliance with the terms of the preliminary agreement.
The strategic waterway, a major route for global oil and gas shipments, had previously reopened following the signing of the interim accord between the two countries. The latest development has raised new concerns about regional stability and energy markets.
US military officials, however, said international shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remained operational and that American forces were continuing to monitor the situation closely.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials signalled that progress in Switzerland would depend on the implementation of commitments already made under the interim agreement.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said Tehran expects practical steps from Washington before broader negotiations can move forward, warning that failure to honour obligations could undermine the entire understanding reached between the two sides.
Pakistani officials confirmed that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir were also travelling to Switzerland to participate in discussions alongside representatives from Qatar and other mediating parties.
Diplomats hope the talks will launch a two-month negotiation process aimed at resolving outstanding disputes and building a foundation for a more comprehensive agreement.
While negotiators prepare to meet in Switzerland, violence in Lebanon continues to cast a shadow over the process.
Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah persisted over the weekend, with casualties reported on both sides and fresh airstrikes carried out across parts of southern Lebanon.
Analysts say the success of the negotiations may depend not only on progress over Iran`s nuclear programme but also on whether regional actors can prevent the conflict in Lebanon from further destabilising the broader diplomatic effort.
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