ZURICH: Technical-level negotiations between Iran and the United States are set to continue throughout the week at Switzerland’s Burgenstock resort after an initial round of talks aimed at ending the Middle East conflict, mediators Pakistan and Qatar announced on Monday.
In a joint statement, the two mediators said discussions would focus on a range of issues, including maritime security, regional stability, and implementation of the recently signed memorandum of understanding (MOU) that extended a fragile ceasefire.
The first round of talks, led by U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Iranian officials, began on Sunday and continued into the early hours of Monday. Participants reportedly discussed mechanisms to maintain safe commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and steps to reduce tensions in Lebanon.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said Tehran had secured progress on several key demands, including waivers for oil and petrochemical exports, the release of some frozen assets, and plans for post-war reconstruction and economic development.
However, tensions surfaced after U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly warned Iran against disrupting traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, threatening severe consequences if Tehran attempted to close the vital waterway again. Iranian media claimed the remarks complicated negotiations, although U.S. officials insisted talks continued without interruption.
According to Iranian sources, Tehran maintains that progress on nuclear-related discussions depends on Washington fulfilling commitments outlined in the MOU, particularly regarding sanctions relief and access to frozen funds.
U.S. officials described the negotiations as constructive, saying discussions covered maritime security, Lebanon, nuclear issues, and mechanisms to prevent future escalation. Technical teams are expected to remain in Switzerland after high-level talks conclude.
The talks come amid ongoing disputes over the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global energy supplies. Iran recently cited continued hostilities in Lebanon as justification for restricting maritime traffic, while Washington has disputed claims that the waterway is fully closed.
Despite political tensions, diplomats from both sides expressed cautious optimism that continued engagement could help stabilize the region and preserve the ceasefire agreement.
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