US officials headed to Switzerland for talks with Iran's foreign minister, hoping to strike peace deal. But Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon could throw wrench into negotiations. Special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law, are reportedly on their way,after earlier US-Iran talks were postponed.
Witkoff's trip aims to restart technical discussions on initial peace terms. While he's en route,Kushner's already there,US media confirmed. Vice President JD Vance was supposed to attend but delayed his trip,per White House.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expected in Switzerland Saturday,though plans could change. Araghchi told contacts that a Lebanon ceasefire is crucial for talks, saying it could “make or break” US-Iran negotiations.
Violence in Lebanon escalates as diplomatic efforts unfold. Israeli airstrikes reportedly killed at least five. Attacks followed a ceasefire announcement between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah. Lebanese state news agency NNA said Israeli warplanes,drones hit Nabatieh, destroying homes . Artillery fire struck outskirts .
Timing of strikes raises questions about US-Iran MoU’s future, which stresses ending Lebanon conflict as part of broader ceasefire. Article 1 of MoU states resolving Lebanon is key to peace process .
Israel and Lebanon engaged in direct talks first time since 1993, starting April with follow-up in June . But Hezbollah not included,limiting talks’ impact. After November 2024 ceasefire,Lebanese government sought to disarm Hezbollah under US-backed plan, also pushing for Israel's pullout from southern Lebanon.
June agreement called for Hezbollah to pull north of Litani River but didn’t require full Israeli pullout. As situation unfolds,potential for renewed violence looms large over fragile diplomatic efforts...
