US envoy, Iran FM set for Switzerland talks

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are expected to travel to Switzerland for

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are expected to travel to Switzerland for fresh negotiations aimed at advancing a broader agreement between Washington and Tehran following the recent ceasefire in Lebanon.

According to media reports, the talks are intended to build on the 14-point memorandum of understanding signed earlier this week, which established a 60-day framework for resolving disputes related to Iran’s nuclear programme and wider regional security concerns.

The development comes after Israel and Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire following days of intensified fighting. The truce has revived diplomatic efforts to transform the temporary agreement between the United States and Iran into a lasting regional settlement.

Reports suggest Witkoff will join senior US officials already present in Switzerland, while Araghchi is expected to arrive on Saturday. The proposed discussions could focus on technical details needed to secure a permanent ceasefire and implement commitments outlined in the interim accord.

Despite reports of the meeting, the White House has not officially confirmed Witkoff’s travel plans. Earlier, US Vice President JD Vance cancelled a planned visit to Switzerland amid rising tensions in Lebanon.

The ceasefire reportedly took effect on Friday evening after mediation efforts involving the United States, Qatar and Iran. However, Lebanese officials have accused Israel of carrying out strikes shortly after the truce began, resulting in civilian casualties.

Several major issues remain unresolved, including the future of Hezbollah’s military activities, security arrangements along the Israel-Lebanon border and guarantees linked to the wider US-Iran understanding.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is reportedly preparing for a Gulf tour that may include visits to Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait as Washington seeks regional support for ongoing diplomatic efforts.

The four-month conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel has caused thousands of deaths and disrupted global energy markets. Recent diplomatic progress and the Lebanon ceasefire have helped ease concerns over oil supplies and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

US President Donald Trump defended the interim agreement despite criticism from some lawmakers, insisting that Iran entered negotiations from a weakened position and that discussions would continue during the 60-day negotiation period.