The United States and Iran remain engaged in delicate diplomatic discussions as tensions continue to simmer across the Middle East. While delegations from both countries are meeting in Switzerland with mediation support from Pakistan and Qatar, US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Tehran over its alleged support for armed groups operating in Lebanon.
Trump stated that Iran must immediately stop backing its proxies in Lebanon, accusing them of destabilizing the region despite an existing ceasefire. In a message posted on Truth Social, he warned that Washington would strike Iran again if Tehran failed to change its approach, saying any future military action could be more severe than previous operations.
The warning comes as Israel continues carrying out military strikes in Lebanon, targeting positions it says belong to Hezbollah. Israeli officials maintain that their forces have the right to respond to threats along the border and ensure the security of Israeli communities. Lebanese media reported that at least 20 people were killed in Israeli attacks over the weekend, only a day after a ceasefire agreement had taken effect.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials have linked ongoing regional stability to the situation in Lebanon. Reports from Iranian media suggest that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until ceasefire commitments are respected and restrictions affecting Iranian oil exports are eased. The strategic waterway remains crucial for global energy markets, making its closure a significant concern for oil-importing nations.
Diplomatic efforts are continuing in Switzerland, where technical level talks between American and Iranian representatives are underway. The US delegation is led by Vice President JD Vance, alongside special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Iranian officials, including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, have also joined the discussions.
Vance praised Pakistan’s mediation efforts, highlighting the role played by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir in facilitating dialogue. He expressed hope that the negotiations could lead to further progress toward a broader regional ceasefire and a reduction in Middle East tensions.
