Envoys Head to Switzerland for Key Negotiations
US President Donald Trump’s personal envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are expected to hold talks in Switzerland as both sides try to turn an interim agreement into a lasting regional deal.
The talks follow this week’s 14-point pact aimed at ending the US-Iran war.
The agreement was designed to open a 60-day negotiation period between Washington and Tehran. The talks are expected to focus on Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, regional security, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Axios reported that Witkoff was travelling to Switzerland, where Jared Kushner is already present. Araghchi was also expected to travel there on Saturday, though Iran has not officially confirmed the visit.
Switzerland has said it is ready to facilitate the talks and that preparatory work is continuing.
Lebanon Ceasefire Faces Early Test
The diplomatic effort is already facing pressure after Israeli strikes in Lebanon reportedly killed at least five people.
The attacks came hours after a ceasefire took effect between Israel and Hezbollah.
Lebanese state media reported that Israeli warplanes and drones struck areas around Nabatieh overnight and into Saturday morning.
The ceasefire in Lebanon is seen as a key condition for wider US-Iran talks to begin.
The interim deal requires the United States, Iran, and their allies to declare an immediate and permanent end to military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon.
However, Israel has said it is not part of the agreement.
Strait of Hormuz and Oil Markets in Focus
The deal is also linked to efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and stabilise global energy supplies.
The waterway carries a major share of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.
Oil shipments through the strait have increased since the interim deal was signed, while Brent crude prices fell during the week.
The agreement also includes possible sanctions relief for Iran, the unfreezing of major assets, and economic incentives.
It also mentions a $300 billion reconstruction fund.
Trump defended the deal against criticism in Washington and said the 60-day process would continue.
The coming days will be crucial for determining whether the ceasefire holds and whether the Switzerland talks can turn the interim pact into a durable peace agreement.
