Key Facts
US President Donald Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are reportedly heading to Switzerland for talks, even as scheduled negotiations were postponed. Trump's other envoy and son-in-law, Jared Kushner, is also expected in Switzerland. The talks aim to solidify a preliminary deal signed on Wednesday to end the war that began on February 28 with US-Israeli strikes killing Iran's supreme leader.
Diplomatic Efforts Amid Violence
Diplomats from several countries met Saturday at the Burgenstock resort near Lucerne for preparatory discussions, according to the Swiss foreign ministry. A diplomatic source told AFP the talks were preparatory in nature. Senior-level talks initially planned for Friday were called off as Israel carried out deadly strikes in southern Lebanon.
Israel Strikes Lebanon Despite Ceasefire
Israel conducted deadly strikes in south Lebanon on Saturday, hours after the US announced a renewed ceasefire with Hezbollah. The Israeli military said it was striking Hezbollah targets in response to over 50 projectiles launched by the group. Lebanese state media reported at least seven killed in an Israeli strike on the south. The Lebanese army said one soldier was killed, accusing Israel of trying to obstruct a solution for stability.
Pakistan's Mediation Role
Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi arrived in the Iranian city of Mashhad on Saturday as part of efforts to facilitate US-Iran negotiations, according to Iranian media. Foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei confirmed the visit.
What Readers Should Know
- The US-Iran preliminary agreement aims to halt the Middle East war on all fronts, including Lebanon.
- Follow-up talks in Switzerland were indefinitely postponed due to escalating violence.
- Hezbollah maintains the right to respond to Israeli strikes, straining the fragile ceasefire.
- US Vice President JD Vance cancelled his Switzerland trip amid the Lebanon exchanges.
FAQ
Why were the US-Iran talks in Switzerland postponed?
The talks were postponed after Israel launched deadly strikes in Lebanon, escalating tensions. US Vice President JD Vance also cancelled his trip.
What is the current status of the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah?
A ceasefire was announced on Friday but Israel continued strikes in southern Lebanon, killing at least five people. Hezbollah launched over 50 projectiles.
What role is Pakistan playing in the US-Iran negotiations?
Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited Iran to facilitate dialogue between Tehran and Washington after the Switzerland talks were postponed.