First Round of Direct US-Iran Talks Since Peace Deal Expected to Continue Through the Night
Negotiations between the United States and Iran aimed at securing a final agreement to end months of conflict are expected to continue through the night in Switzerland, as both sides work to address key disagreements and prevent renewed instability across the Middle East.
The talks, taking place in the Swiss city of Lucerne, mark the first direct negotiations since the two countries agreed last week to pursue a comprehensive peace deal within 60 days. Diplomats from both nations described the discussions as constructive but acknowledged that significant issues remain unresolved.
According to a senior US diplomat involved in the negotiations, discussions have focused on several critical matters, including Iran’s messaging regarding the Strait of Hormuz, implementation of a ceasefire in southern Lebanon, and the framework for a future nuclear agreement.
The latest round of talks comes amid renewed tensions in the region. Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump warned Iran that Washington could respond militarily if Hezbollah continued attacks against Israel from Lebanon. Iranian officials dismissed the warning, insisting the country would not back down in the face of threats.
Iranian negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf responded sharply, arguing that foreign pressure had failed to alter Tehran’s position and emphasizing that Iran would continue making decisions based on its own interests.
The negotiations are taking place against the backdrop of ongoing violence in Lebanon despite recent ceasefire efforts. Although fighting reportedly decreased over the weekend, tensions remain high. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israeli forces will remain in southern Lebanon as long as necessary to ensure the security of northern Israel.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has rejected any long-term Israeli military presence in the area and vowed that the group would continue defending its positions.
A major issue under discussion remains the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important shipping routes through which a significant share of global oil and gas supplies pass. While Iran recently announced that the waterway had been closed, shipping data indicated that several vessels continued to transit through the strait, creating confusion over its actual operational status.
The initial agreement signed earlier this month included commitments to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, end hostilities across multiple fronts, ease sanctions on Iran, and support a large-scale reconstruction programme valued at hundreds of billions of dollars.
However, perhaps the most difficult issue still facing negotiators is Iran’s nuclear programme. Washington continues to seek assurances regarding Tehran’s nuclear ambitions, while Iran maintains that its programme is strictly peaceful and intended for civilian purposes.
Senior US officials, including Vice-President JD Vance, have expressed hope that the negotiations could open a new chapter in relations if Iran agrees to address concerns surrounding regional security and nuclear development.
With both delegations expected to continue talks into the night, diplomats say the discussions could shape the future of regional stability and determine whether the current ceasefire efforts evolve into a lasting peace agreement.
