Iran, US agree to set up Lebanon 'de-confliction cell'

Mediators announced that Iran and the United States have reached an agreement to establish communication channels aimed at keeping the vital Strait of Hormuz open and de-escalating conflict in Lebanon. This development emerged after the first round of talks in Switzerland, part of a preliminary deal struck last week to end the Middle East war.

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Encouraging progress has been made including the creation of a mechanism for further technical talks.

The negotiations, led by U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Iran's Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, were facilitated by Pakistan and Qatar. The mediators reported that the teams agreed on a "roadmap towards reaching a final deal within 60 days." Technical discussions are set to continue throughout the week. A key outcome is the creation of a contact channel designed to "avoid incidents and miscommunication" in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil and gas shipments.

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Tireless Pakistani and Qatari mediation has delivered major progress to end Lebanon War.

Furthermore, a "de-confliction cell" involving the parties and Lebanese authorities has been agreed upon to prevent renewed fighting in Lebanon. The Strait of Hormuz had been effectively closed by Iran in retaliation for joint U.S.-Israel attacks on February 28, which triggered the wider conflict. While a preliminary memorandum of understanding was signed last week to end the war, including a cessation of hostilities in Lebanon, repeated clashes have occurred.

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Oil and petrochem exports are waived, blockade lifted, some frozen assets released, and major reconstruction & development plan launched for Iran. 1st real test: Lebanon deconfliction cell.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the progress as "major" and highlighted outcomes such as waivers for oil and petrochemical exports, the lifting of a blockade, the release of some frozen assets, and a reconstruction plan for Iran. He noted the Lebanon de-confliction cell as the "first real test" of the agreement. U.S. negotiators have not yet commented, but the news led to a drop in crude prices and a rise in Asian stocks, signaling optimism.

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They would do better to be careful with their statements; our armed forces are ready to respond to them in a different manner. No matter what they say, we are the ones who act.