Special envoy Steve Witkoff is reportedly heading to Switzerland as the US gears up for potential nuclear discussions with Iran.
Barak Ravid, a world affairs correspondent, shared on X that Witkoff is en route to Switzerland, joining fellow envoy Jared Kushner, who is already there.
Ravid noted that discussions were set to kick off on Friday but were postponed due to the ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. There’s no update yet on when the parties will actually convene.
Additionally, Ravid mentioned that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is slated to arrive in Switzerland on Saturday, though plans are still tentative. He informed several foreign officials that achieving a ceasefire in Lebanon is a top priority for Iran and might influence the US-Iran negotiations, according to a mediator from one of the participating countries.
Another mediator’s representative told Ravid that Iran is keen on ensuring a ceasefire is firmly established before engaging in talks in Switzerland.
Previously, it was reported that Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei gave his approval to a memorandum of understanding with the US, despite some hesitations, after senior Iranian officials reassured him about the deal’s alignment with Iran’s interests.
However, Israel has expressed its plans to maintain and possibly extend its military operations in southern Lebanon. Recently, the Israeli military made public a map indicating areas it aims to control, some stretching further into Lebanese territory, including regions near the stronghold of Nabatiyeh, which is north of the Litani River.
Despite increasing international calls for withdrawal, Israel remains steadfast, having invaded Lebanon in March as a response to missile strikes from Hezbollah. The ongoing conflict has resulted in a significant human toll, with many lives lost, villages devastated, and countless civilians displaced.
Meanwhile, President Trump announced a renewed effort for Middle East peace, encouraging all involved parties to support ongoing negotiations and commit to a complete ceasefire involving Israel, Hezbollah, and Lebanon. He pointed out that declining oil prices and rising stock markets suggest an optimism about diplomatic resolutions in the region.
Trump stated, “The United States is committed to peace and we encourage everyone in the region to ensure that negotiations proceed smoothly.” He expressed hope for a comprehensive ceasefire across all fronts, including Lebanon, Hezbollah, and Israel.
