US, Iran conclude first follow-up talks after 18 hours, agree on Hormuz and Lebanon solutions

The United States and Iran have reached a significant agreement to establish a high-level committee and a conflict prevention mechanism for Lebanon, marking a key development in their follow-up negotiations. This accord, reached after an 18-hour session, also includes the creation of a communication channel aimed at ensuring the safe passage of commercial vessels through the critical Strait of Hormuz.

Mediated by Qatar and Pakistan, the four-way talks were held at the Bürgenstock resort in Switzerland. A joint statement released by the mediating nations described the atmosphere as "positive and constructive," highlighting encouraging progress in building a framework for future technical negotiations. This marks the first follow-up meeting since both countries signed a memorandum of understanding just five days prior.

Both nations will form a high-level committee to provide political oversight for the mediation process, with a roadmap to reach a final agreement within 60 days. Senior representatives from the U.S. and Iran will report regularly to this committee and lead working groups focused on nuclear issues, sanctions, monitoring the memorandum's implementation, and dispute resolution.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi hailed the outcome as "significant progress" in ending the conflict in Lebanon. Esmaeil Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran's Foreign Ministry, indicated that discussions also covered the issuance of permits for Iranian oil sales and the unfreezing of Iranian assets, noting that "good progress" was made. He emphasized that these measures must be implemented before negotiations on a final nuclear deal can commence.