A short diplomatic sprint in Switzerland could reshape nuclear talks, but diplomats warn that outcomes hinge on a separate Lebanese ceasefire being secured first.
It is expected that Vice President JD Vance will travel to Switzerland for talks with Iran, where the United States plans to outline the framework for the meeting and the potential progress on nuclear issues.
The Tehran delegation is already on the ground, and sources say that further advancement of the talks will depend on whether the Lebanon issue is resolved first.
Despite the announced ceasefire in Lebanon, Israel continues to shell areas where Hezbollah operates, resulting in civilian casualties in recent days.
Switzerland’s agenda includes an emergency session on Lebanon, which will be the first topic for discussion, a diplomat close to the preparations said.
Negotiations in Switzerland and key directions
Before leaving for Switzerland, JD Vance outlined the priorities: to define the structure of the talks, achieve progress on nuclear issues, and secure a ceasefire in Lebanon.
The vice president himself said he would stay in Switzerland for about one to two days, hoping to make progress on Iran’s nuclear questions and stabilizing the situation in the Middle East.
At the same time, he emphasized that the Lebanon issue is one of the key elements of the talks and requires initial resolution for the dialogue to move forward.
Ending the conflict in Lebanon is the most important item on the Iranian delegation’s agenda.
– Iranian official
Overall, discussions in Switzerland will take place against the backdrop of ongoing fighting in Lebanon, which could affect the pace and content of the agreements between the United States and Iran.
It is also reported that both delegations – from the United States and Iran – are arriving in Switzerland to discuss the next steps within the framework of the ceasefire, but real progress will depend on stabilizing the situation in Lebanon.
The talks will continue, but their success will depend on stabilizing the situation in Lebanon and both sides’ willingness to seek compromises.