Strait of Hormuz tensions shadow U.S.-Iran peace talks in Switzerland

Chief negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf leads the Iranian team, which includes Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and senior officials from the central bank and oil sector. Despite the declared closure of the vital energy conduit, U.S. Central Command reported that 55 merchant vessels transited the waterway on Saturday, carrying over 17 million barrels of oil. President Donald Trump signaled that the U.S. would ensure passage remains open, though he hinted at future tolls should the diplomatic mission collapse.

Progress in Switzerland remains overshadowed by the volatile situation in Lebanon. While a ceasefire agreement was signed Wednesday, the Lebanese Civil Defence reported 20 fatalities from Israeli strikes on Saturday. Iran’s leadership, including adviser Mohammad Mokhber, has accused Washington of failing to enforce the 14-point deal on all fronts. Israel, which is not a party to the U.S.-Iran agreement, maintains that it will continue to target Hezbollah and retain its current positions in Lebanese territory. Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President JD Vance expressed optimism regarding the negotiations, noting that envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff are already on the ground managing technical components of the talks.