Araghchi, Witkoff head to Switzerland as talks resume after Lebanon ceasefire

WASHINGTON: Fresh diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran appeared to gain momentum on Friday as US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi prepared to travel to Switzerland for discussions aimed at advancing a broader peace framework, according to Axios.

The planned talks come after Israel and Hezbollah agreed to halt hostilities in Lebanon following several days of intensified fighting that had threatened to derail wider regional negotiations. The truce has renewed hopes that an interim agreement reached earlier this week between the United States and Iran can evolve into a more comprehensive settlement.

The accord, signed earlier this week, established a 60-day negotiating period during which both sides are expected to address outstanding disputes, including issues surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme and broader regional security concerns.

US Vice President JD Vance had been expected to attend discussions in Switzerland but postponed his trip on Thursday as violence escalated in Lebanon. With the ceasefire now holding, Witkoff is expected to join senior adviser Jared Kushner in Switzerland, while Araghchi is scheduled to arrive on Saturday, according to the report.

The White House did not immediately comment on Witkoff’s travel plans.

A senior US official said the ceasefire took effect on Friday afternoon following mediation efforts involving the United States, Qatar and Iran. Sources from Hezbollah and an Israeli official also confirmed the arrangement.

Israeli officials indicated that military operations would remain suspended as long as Hezbollah refrains from launching attacks, although Israeli troops will continue to maintain positions in southern Lebanon.

Lebanese security officials reported that Israeli air strikes continued briefly after the truce was announced but subsided within an hour. Lebanon’s health ministry said Israeli attacks overnight killed dozens of people and injured nearly 100 others, while Israel reported the deaths of four soldiers during operations in Lebanon.

Challenges remain despite progress

Although diplomacy has regained momentum, significant obstacles remain. Iran has insisted that Washington will be held accountable for fulfilling commitments contained in the agreement, including provisions related to ending hostilities in Lebanon.

The broader framework includes sanctions relief for Tehran, the release of frozen assets, measures to restore commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and economic incentives aimed at supporting Iran’s recovery.

US President Donald Trump defended the interim deal amid criticism from some lawmakers, arguing that the conflict had weakened Iran and strengthened Washington’s negotiating position. He said the coming 60 days would determine whether the framework could be transformed into a lasting regional settlement.