American and Iranian officials begin peace negotiations amid disputes over maritime security and renewed violence in Lebanon.
US-Iran talks are set to begin in Switzerland as senior officials from both countries seek to advance a peace framework aimed at ending months of conflict and reducing tensions across the Middle East.
Iranian negotiators arrived in Switzerland on Sunday ahead of meetings with American officials. The discussions follow a 60-day ceasefire agreement and a broader diplomatic framework designed to support long-term negotiations.
The talks come amid conflicting claims over the status of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy supplies. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced that the waterway had been closed, while US officials rejected the claim.
According to US Central Command, commercial shipping continued through the strait without interruption. The military said 55 merchant vessels passed through the waterway on Saturday, carrying more than 17 million barrels of oil.
US Vice President JD Vance said he had seen no evidence that the Strait of Hormuz had been closed. He expressed confidence that the ceasefire would remain in place and that negotiations could produce progress on key issues.
The Iranian delegation is led by Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and includes Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi along with senior security, financial and energy officials.
The US team includes envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner. Pakistani officials have also joined the diplomatic process, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir expected to attend discussions.
Iranian officials said they would seek assurances that commitments made under the interim agreement are fully implemented. Tehran has raised concerns about alleged violations linked to developments in Lebanon.
Lebanon remains a major point of tension. Israeli forces and the Iran-backed group Hezbollah exchanged attacks despite a ceasefire that recently took effect.
Israeli officials said their forces responded to Hezbollah attacks, while Hezbollah accused Israel of continuing military operations inside Lebanese territory.
The negotiations also focus on Iran’s nuclear programme, regional security and the implementation of the broader peace framework. Diplomats hope the talks will build momentum toward a comprehensive agreement in the coming months.
