Iran, U.S. agree on roadmap for Middle East peace deal within 60 days

In a significant development from negotiations in Switzerland, Iran and the United States have agreed on a roadmap aimed at concluding a definitive accord within 60 days to end the war in the Middle East. The talks, held at Bürgenstock, also saw agreement on establishing a "conflict management cell" to cease confrontations in Lebanon.

Furthermore, a "communication line" will be implemented to ensure the security of transit through the Strait of Hormuz. This comes amidst ongoing, albeit reportedly reduced, clashes in southern Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah, despite a recently announced ceasefire. The Israeli army has stated its continued presence in southern Lebanon is necessary, while Hezbollah leadership has rejected any Israeli security zone.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced "major progress" on Monday, highlighting the unblocking of Iranian assets and the lifting of restrictions on oil exports. He credited Pakistani and Qatari mediation for these advancements in ending the war in Lebanon. "Oil and petrochemical exports are no longer restricted, the blockade is lifted, some frozen assets are unfrozen, and a major reconstruction and development plan for Iran has been launched," Araghchi stated on X.

Mediators from Pakistan and Qatar confirmed the agreement on a "communication line" between Iran and the U.S. to prevent incidents and communication issues, ensuring safe passage for commercial vessels in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. They also announced the agreement to create the "conflict management cell" to de-escalate the situation in Lebanon, which had previously weakened the Middle East ceasefire.