Four-party Iran–US talks in Switzerland conclude first round

The first round of quadrilateral talks involving Iran, the United States, Pakistan and Qatar has concluded in Switzerland after

BÜRGENSTOCK: The first round of quadrilateral talks involving Iran, the United States, Pakistan and Qatar has concluded in Switzerland after approximately 80 minutes of discussions, according to Iranian media reports citing officials familiar with the negotiations.

The meeting, hosted in Bürgenstock, was temporarily paused midway to allow delegations to hold internal consultations. No timeline has been announced for the next round of talks, while diplomatic teams are expected to reconvene after further review of proposals.

The high-level engagement is part of a broader US–Iran diplomatic process aimed at easing regional tensions, with Pakistan and Qatar acting as mediators. The discussions focus on an interim framework agreement covering ceasefire arrangements, sanctions relief, and regional security concerns.

Earlier, officials confirmed that technical-level negotiations are continuing alongside bilateral meetings between participating delegations. Pakistan has facilitated separate discussions with US, Iranian, and Qatari representatives during the process.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed hope that the talks would contribute to “peace, progress and prosperity,” calling the gathering a significant step toward regional stability.

US Vice President JD Vance said the negotiations reflect growing diplomatic momentum and credited Pakistan’s leadership, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, for their role in facilitating dialogue.

He noted that such high-level engagement between Washington and Tehran had not taken place in years and described the process as complex but promising, with progress reported over recent days.

Iranian officials said the talks are focused on implementing key provisions of a memorandum of understanding, including ceasefire commitments, frozen assets, and oil export arrangements. Tehran has emphasized that full implementation of earlier agreements is essential before advancing to a final deal.

Meanwhile, tensions in the region remain high due to ongoing developments in Lebanon and concerns over the Strait of Hormuz, which Iranian sources say will remain closed until ceasefire conditions are fully met.

Further rounds of discussions are expected in the coming days as mediators work to narrow differences and build momentum toward a broader settlement.