LATEST: VP Vance Leads U.S.-Iran Talks in Switzerland to Progress on 60-Day Peace Roadmap

High-level talks between the United States and Iran ended early on June 22, 2026, at a resort near Lake Lucerne in Switzerland. Mediators from Pakistan and Qatar described the discussions as constructive and said encouraging progress had been made. 

The talks aimed to build on a recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two countries. This agreement called for a temporary pause in fighting, reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for shipping, and steps toward ending conflict in Lebanon. The goal is to reach a full, lasting peace deal within the next 60 days. 

Who Participated

  • U.S. side: Led by Vice President JD Vance, along with envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
  • Iranian side: Led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
  • Mediators: Officials from Pakistan (including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif) and Qatar.

The meetings took place at the Bürgenstock resort, chosen for its neutral setting in Switzerland. Technical-level talks are expected to continue there this week. 

Main Outcomes

Mediators announced several agreements:

  • A roadmap for a final deal within 60 days.
  • Creation of a high-level committee for oversight and working groups on key issues.
  • Steps to set up a communication line to prevent incidents in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • A “de-confliction cell” to help stop military operations in Lebanon. 

Iranian officials noted progress on sanctions relief, oil export waivers, and releasing some frozen assets. Vance described the results as positive diplomatic steps forward. 

Challenges During Talks

The first day included tension. President Donald Trump made public threats of strong action if Iran or its allies caused problems in Lebanon.

Iran briefly walked out in protest but returned, and the talks continued overnight. Despite these bumps, both sides described the overall atmosphere as positive. 

Background and Next Steps

The negotiations follow months of conflict in the region. The recent MoU provided a short-term ceasefire framework. Issues still to be resolved include Iran’s nuclear program, full sanctions relief, and long-term regional stability. 

Technical discussions will resume soon. Mediators say the process remains on track, though developments could change quickly. Success would help reduce tensions, stabilize oil markets, and lower the risk of wider conflict in the Middle East.