The US-Iran talks planned in Switzerland to implement a recently agreed framework on ending the conflict and addressing Iran’s nuclear programme are abruptly cancelled, following renewed Israeli strikes in Lebanon. Reporting from the talks’ expected venue links the cancellation to developments on the ground: a US official says the US still intends to begin “technical talks as soon as possible,” while Iranian delegation timing is described by Hezbollah-linked media as affected by Israel’s military campaign.
The talks were scheduled after the signing of a memorandum of understanding creating a 60-day window for negotiations, including provisions connected to reopening the Strait of Hormuz and resuming shipping after mine clearance. Meanwhile, Lebanon-related fighting escalates. Hezbollah fires rockets at Israeli forces near Nabatieh after Israeli shelling, and Israel responds with a wave of airstrikes. Israeli military and Lebanese state-linked reports describe deaths and injuries, while Hezbollah says there is intense fighting in southern Lebanon.
The new US-Iran agreement calls for an immediate halt to military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon. Iran says Israel’s attacks must end as part of any deal. Separately, US vice-president JD Vance criticises Israeli opponents of the proposed agreement, saying Trump is Israel’s only remaining head-of-state ally, while US President Trump publicly urges a “complete ceasefire” on all fronts to allow negotiations to proceed.
