First Phase to Focus on Hormuz and Regional Trade
Iran has outlined a two-stage roadmap for upcoming negotiations with the United States, as both sides prepare for a new round of talks aimed at reaching a final settlement.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the first phase of talks will focus on security and economic issues. He said the Strait of Hormuz, maritime restrictions, blockades and regional trade movement will be among the first items on the agenda.
Speaking to diplomats in Tehran, Araghchi said immediate concerns must be addressed before wider strategic issues are discussed. He said the reopening of trade routes and the removal of restrictions will be central to the first stage of the dialogue.
The talks are expected to begin after a formal signing ceremony scheduled for Friday in Switzerland. According to AFP, the negotiations will continue during a 60-day window.
The process is expected to lead to decisions on Iran’s nuclear programme and the possible lifting of international economic sanctions.
Reconstruction to Come Before Nuclear Talks
Araghchi said infrastructure reconstruction will also be part of the first phase of negotiations.
He said recent tensions and instability had affected key infrastructure, and restoration efforts should be discussed before moving to broader strategic matters.
According to the Iranian foreign minister, nuclear-related talks will be taken up in the second phase.
He said progress on security, trade and reconstruction issues will help create space for more difficult discussions on Iran’s nuclear programme.
Iran has maintained that it has a right to enrichment, while the United States and Israel have pushed for limits on Tehran’s nuclear capabilities.
The proposed agreement is expected to address these major disputes in later stages.
Araghchi also warned that any attack on Lebanon would violate the understanding reached between the parties. He said all sides must respect commitments aimed at reducing tensions and protecting regional stability.
Oil Prices Fall as Diplomacy Gains Momentum
The diplomatic developments have already affected global energy markets.
Reports of the Strait of Hormuz reopening sent oil prices lower, as investors welcomed the possibility of reduced supply disruption.
US President Donald Trump said ships had started moving through the route again. He also said a deal could bring major relief to the global economy.
Brent crude and West Texas Intermediate both fell sharply after the reports.
A senior US official said a framework agreement had already been signed electronically by US and Iranian representatives. The formal signing is expected to take place at the Burgenstock resort in Switzerland.
Vice President JD Vance is expected to represent the US side, while Iran is expected to send senior negotiators.
Despite growing optimism, tensions remain high.
Fresh Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon have raised concerns that regional violence could threaten the diplomatic process.
Iran’s military command warned of a response after the strikes, while Israel said its forces acted after identifying suspicious movement and rocket activity.
Analysts say the Lebanon front could become a major risk for the negotiations.
Araghchi also struck a cautious tone. He said Iran remembers past agreements that were broken and commitments that were abandoned.
For now, the talks mark a major diplomatic opening. However, the final outcome will depend on whether both sides can turn the framework into a lasting agreement.
