Direct talks between the United States and Iran have commenced in Bürgenstock, Switzerland, amid escalating regional tensions and renewed concerns over maritime security in the Gulf. The negotiations come after Iran announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, citing ongoing Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon and alleging that the United States had violated understandings aimed at ending the conflict. However, the US military stated that shipping traffic continues to move through the strategic waterway.

An Iranian delegation led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Switzerland on Saturday to participate in the high-level discussions. US Vice-President JD Vance reached Bürgenstock early Sunday and held meetings with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir ahead of the talks.

Pakistan has played a key mediating role throughout the conflict and previously hosted a round of negotiations between Washington and Tehran. In a statement issued before the latest talks, Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the implementation of understandings reached between Iran and the United States and expressed hope for further progress through dialogue.

Speaking before departing for Switzerland, Vance said he hoped the talks would advance efforts on both the Iranian nuclear issue and securing a ceasefire in Lebanon. Referring to the recent clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, he noted that the situation appeared to be improving and stressed that the ultimate objective was to ensure the safety and security of both Israel and Lebanon while promoting stability across the wider Middle East.

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