US Diplomat Says First Day of Switzerland Talks Went Well

An American diplomat involved in the negotiations in Switzerland said on Sunday evening that talks with Iran, and with the mediators Pakistan and Qatar, are likely to continue into the night. He said the discussions began in the morning and went on almost nonstop in different formats.

According to him, one major topic was “mechanisms to prevent friction in Lebanon and enforce the ceasefire.” The participants also discussed the Strait of Hormuz and recent Iranian claims that it could be closed. “We made clear that we want to ensure it remains fully open. We made good progress on that issue,” he said.

The diplomat said the day’s talks also covered “all components of the nuclear agreement.” The sides also held useful discussions about implementing the memorandum of understanding, and about making sure everyone is operating under the same understanding. They also discussed a plan for continued talks, both at the senior political level and between technical teams.

He said, “It seems all four parties are satisfied with the way the talks went today. The mediators are helping both sides overcome disagreements and difficulties. We feel this first round of talks is laying the groundwork for building trust going forward.” He added that the senior-level talks are expected to end on Monday, after which technical discussions will continue, probably in Switzerland.