A planned round of direct talks between the United States and Iran has been postponed after U.S. Vice-President JD Vance delayed his trip to Switzerland, where officials were expected to discuss the next phase of a recent agreement aimed at ending the conflict.
The White House said late Thursday that Vance would not travel for the meeting, explaining that the arrangements had not been “simple or predictable” and that the plans had “not been finalised.”
It added that Washington looked forward to “beginning technical talks as soon as possible.”
Switzerland’s foreign ministry later confirmed that the talks at the Burgenstock resort had been “postponed,” but said preparations were still ongoing.
The discussions were expected to focus on implementing the agreement and addressing longer-term issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme.
The deal, built around 14 points, includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a commitment from Iran that it will not develop nuclear weapons, and a $300 billion reconstruction plan.
It also requires both sides to reach a final agreement within 60 days, unless they mutually agree to extend the deadline.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei said he approved the agreement despite having a “different view,” accusing U.S. President Donald Trump of using pressure to force the deal.
However, fresh violence in Lebanon has raised concerns about the ceasefire.
Lebanon’s health ministry said Israeli strikes killed at least 18 people in the south.
Israel said it targeted Hezbollah positions and that four of its soldiers were killed.
Trump said he expected a ceasefire to apply “on all fronts,” including Israel and Hezbollah.
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