US, Iran Open Direct Peace Talks in Switzerland After Ceasefire Deal

Delegations from the United States and Iran have begun direct negotiations in Switzerland aimed at securing a comprehensive peace agreement days after both countries signed an initial deal to halt hostilities.

The talks, taking place at the Bürgenstock resort, are expected to focus on Iran’s nuclear programme, implementation of the ceasefire, and efforts to stabilise the wider Middle East.

Speaking ahead of the meeting, US Vice President JD Vance said President Donald Trump wanted negotiators to “turn over a new leaf,” expressing Washington’s willingness to reset ties if Tehran abandons what he described as regional destabilisation and long-term nuclear weapons ambitions.

Iran, however, maintains that its nuclear activities are solely for peaceful purposes. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said progress towards a final accord would depend on all parties honouring existing commitments, including a complete halt to military operations.

President Trump also warned Iran against allowing its allies in Lebanon to escalate tensions, threatening to respond forcefully if attacks by Hezbollah continue.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf arrived in Switzerland on Saturday for the negotiations, which are also being attended by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, whose country has played a mediating role during the conflict.

The initial agreement signed earlier this week envisages a final peace deal within 60 days, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the lifting of US military restrictions on shipping to Iranian ports, and the eventual removal of sanctions on Tehran.

However, tensions remain after renewed clashes between Israel and Hezbollah raised questions about the durability of the ceasefire.