US-Iran Talks Move to Switzerland as Envoys Prepare for Negotiations
US President Donald Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are reportedly heading to Switzerland for talks, according to sources familiar with the matter. The discussions, initially scheduled to take place earlier, were postponed but are now expected to proceed in the coming days.
Trump's other envoy and son-in-law, Jared Kushner, is also expected to be in Switzerland for the negotiations. The talks come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, following exchanges of deadly strikes between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon.
US Vice President JD Vance cancelled his trip to Switzerland on Thursday, as the situation in Lebanon escalated. The cancellation was linked to the security situation, though details remain unclear.
Diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran have been ongoing, with both sides expressing willingness to de-escalate tensions. However, no formal agreement has been announced. The talks in Switzerland are seen as a crucial step towards reducing hostilities, though significant differences remain.
The US has not declared war on Iran, and the term 'US-Iran war' is not officially recognised. The conflict referred to in some reports appears to describe a series of military exchanges between US-backed forces and Iran-aligned groups, rather than a formal state of war.
Analysts note that the talks could also address the broader regional situation, including the conflict in Gaza and the role of Iran-backed proxies. The outcome remains uncertain, but both sides have signalled a desire to avoid further escalation.
