Arabic version: الولايات المتحدة وإيران تبدأان محادثات مباشرة في سويسرا وسط توترات إقليمية

Direct negotiations between the United States and Iran are set to commence in Switzerland, despite Iran’s military announcement that it has closed the Strait of Hormuz following Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon. According to BBC News, the US military has countered this claim, stating that maritime traffic continues to flow through the strategic waterway.

US Vice-President JD Vance departed Washington for the talks, while an Iranian delegation, including parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, has already arrived. The discussions are also expected to involve Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the head of Pakistan’s armed forces, Field Marshal Asim Munir, who have acted as mediators in the ongoing conflict.

Vance expressed hopes of making progress on nuclear issues and a ceasefire in Lebanon, stating, “Things are actually getting better there, and things are slowing down a little bit.” Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, indicated that Iran will demand the fulfillment of commitments from the US.

The backdrop to these talks includes a recent escalation of violence, with at least 47 casualties reported in Lebanon from Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions. This violence complicates the already tense situation as Israel and Hezbollah continue to exchange fire, even after a confirmed ceasefire.

Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guard Corps claimed that Israeli strikes violated ceasefire agreements, justifying their closure of the Strait of Hormuz. However, US Central Command reported that maritime traffic remains unaffected, with over 55 merchant ships transiting the strait on Saturday. The Strait of Hormuz is crucial for global oil trade, with significant volumes passing through daily, underscoring the importance of stability in the region.