A new wave of diplomatic activity is underway in Switzerland, where the possibility of resuming negotiations between the United States and Iran over Tehran's nuclear program is being considered. The developments come after a ceasefire reached between Israel and Hezbollah, which has created a more favorable climate for a return to the negotiating table.
According to US media, White House special envoy Steve Witkoff has left for Switzerland to discuss a possible deal with Iran. Jared Kushner, a close aide to President Donald Trump, and Qatar's prime minister and foreign minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, who is considered an important mediator between Washington and Tehran, are also in the country.
The US delegation was initially expected to be led by Vice President JD Vance, but he canceled his trip at the last minute. It is not yet clear whether he will join the talks over the weekend. The negotiations were scheduled to begin on Friday but were postponed due to the escalation of fighting in Lebanon. However, the ceasefire reached between Israel and Hezbollah has reopened the possibility of continuing diplomatic dialogue.
Despite the ceasefire agreement, the situation on the ground remains tense. Lebanese authorities reported at least 47 dead and around 100 wounded in Israeli shelling, while the Israeli army announced the loss of four soldiers, including a senior officer.
The rhetoric between the parties continues to be harsh. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Hezbollah would pay a “very heavy price,” while National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir called for even stronger measures against Lebanon. On the other hand, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused Israel of seeking a permanent conflict in the region. According to a US official, the ceasefire was reached after mediation by the US, Qatar, Israel and Iran. However, just a few hours after its announcement, new incidents were reported, with Lebanese sources speaking of further bombings, claims that were denied by Israel.
Meanwhile, Switzerland has announced that nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran have been postponed indefinitely. According to Iranian authorities, there is no rush to hold the meeting and a new date is expected to be set in the coming days.
The developments are also affecting international energy markets. Maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz has slowed significantly, while the price of Brent oil has stabilized around $80 per barrel, as investors carefully monitor the progress of negotiations and the security situation in the Middle East.
