Ekhbary News Agency | May 12, 2024
High-level negotiations between the United States and Iran concluded early Monday in Obbuergen, Switzerland, aimed at a permanent resolution to the Iran conflict. Technical discussions are slated to continue throughout the week, following an agreement to establish a “de-confliction cell” focused on the fighting in Lebanon. Mediators Pakistan and Qatar issued a statement confirming the cell would include the Lebanese government, tasked with ensuring adherence to the cessation of military operations in Lebanon.
Trump's Threats and Regional Tensions
The efficacy of this cell in halting clashes between the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia and Israel, which maintains a presence in Lebanon and insists on its right to target militants, remains uncertain. The U.S. offered no immediate comment, while Iran lauded the mediators' efforts. This 60-day diplomatic process began under a cloud of tension, notably after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened severe retaliation against Iran if its "highly paid PROXIES" in Lebanon continued to cause trouble. Iran's lead negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, responded sharply, stating their armed forces were "prepared to respond in a different manner."
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Strait of Hormuz and Nuclear Program Sticking Points
For all intents and purposes, Iran asserted it had again closed the vital Strait of Hormuz over the weekend, a claim the U.S. disputed, confirming continued shipping traffic. Vice President JD Vance and his team met with Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi for approximately 80 minutes. This divergence highlights the deep-seated challenges inherent in forging any lasting agreement. U.S. diplomats involved in the talks, speaking anonymously, clarified discussions included Iran's statements on the Strait of Hormuz, mechanisms to keep it open, and a robust dialogue on the nuclear issue. Washington seeks to bind Tehran into negotiations over its nuclear program, which it fears could be used for military purposes—an accusation Iran denies.
