OBBÜRGEN, Switzerland (AP) — Vice President JD Vance expressed optimism on Sunday about “turning the page” with Iran, as discussions aimed at further developing the interim agreement to end the conflict in Iran took center stage. Last week’s agreement offered hope, though President Donald Trump maintained a hard stance, threatening military action if Iran continued supporting Hezbollah in Lebanon or closed the crucial Strait of Hormuz. “Iran must immediately halt their well-paid operatives in Lebanon from causing trouble,” Trump warned on social media, stating further strikes against Iran were possible.
Vance and U.S. negotiators met Iranian officials in a mountainous resort near Lake Lucerne. Mediation from Pakistan and Qatar facilitated direct communication for approximately 80 minutes. Separate private talks ensued with these mediators. The U.S. aims to keep Iran engaged in nuclear program discussions amid worries of possible military applications, a claim Iran denies. Vance also urged Tehran to commit to keeping the Strait of Hormuz open.
Trump’s social media remarks, made from Camp David, threatened the delicate negotiations. Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, Iran’s parliamentary president, responded defensively. Iranian state media reported the talks faced challenges, partially attributed to Trump’s aggressive messaging. Following these interactions, the Iranian delegation met with Qatari mediators but did not withdraw from discussions, according to an insider.
Iran seeks first to address Israeli attacks in Lebanon. Last week’s signed framework now pushes U.S. and Iranian negotiators toward a comprehensive deal. Conflict in Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah jeopardizes progress, while the Strait of Hormuz appears closed again according to Iranian announcements. A fragile Lebanon ceasefire negotiated Saturday seems to hold.
Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s agreement allows immediate oil sales and unfreezing of Iranian assets. Iran must dilute its enriched uranium reserves, though it insists on maintaining uranium enrichment rights.
Vance had planned an earlier Swiss arrival but was delayed due to intensified Lebanese conflict. While he briefly participates, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner lead technical discussions. Vance’s involvement has stirred scrutiny amidst his 2028 presidential aspirations.
Political reactions are mixed, with Trump and Vance facing criticism internally for the agreement. Hardline Republicans contrast it unfavorably with Obama’s nuclear pact, arguing Trump’s deal fails to address Iran’s nuclear pursuits effectively.
The agreement offers commercial ship passage through the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days without fees but allows potential future Iranian tariffs. Trump postures peacockingly, hinting at possible U.S. tolls for Middle Eastern protection services.
Global markets have stayed relatively calm, though American gasoline prices have risen, affecting summer travel plans. Following the deal announcement, oil futures dropped nearly 8%. Market dynamics remain influenced by ongoing diplomatic developments.
Complicating matters, both Israel and Hezbollah refrained from signing the U.S.-Iran agreement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared military presence in southern Lebanon pending risk mitigation. Hezbollah persists with demands for Israeli withdrawal.
Kim reported from Washington. The Associated Press contributors included Munir Ahmed in Islamabad, Amir Vahdat in Tehran, Iran, and Melanie Lidman in Tel Aviv, Israel.