Iran delegation, led by Speaker Ghalibaf arrives in Switzerland

An Iranian delegation, headed by Parliament Speaker and Chief Negotiator MB Ghalibaf, has arrived in Zurich, Switzerland, for the initial round of technical discussions with the United States. These talks are framed as a component of a 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at de-escalating tensions in West Asia.

According to Iranian state media Press TV, the negotiation team has adopted the name "Minab 168." This designation serves as a tribute to the victims of the Minab school incident, an event that Iranian officials have previously referenced in international diplomatic contexts. The arrival of the Iranian delegation follows the departure of US Vice President JD Vance for Switzerland, also for negotiations with Iran, subsequent to the MoU's signing on Wednesday.

Axios reported, citing a source, that Vance might participate in the talks. The MoU, virtually signed by former US President Trump and Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian, aims to cease hostilities, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and initiate broader negotiations, including discussions on Iran's nuclear program. US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are reportedly already in Switzerland for the expected nuclear deal talks on Sunday.

The Iranian delegation's departure from Tehran occurred shortly after the Iranian armed forces announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This action was presented as a response to alleged ceasefire violations by Israel in Lebanon, which Iran described as an "integral part" of the MoU. Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, also arrived in Switzerland on Friday, highlighting Qatar's role as a key mediator between Washington and Tehran.