Morning update

Morning update Good morning Middle East Eye readers, US and Iranian negotiators made what mediators described as encouraging progress during high-level talks in Switzerland, agreeing on a roadmap toward a final agreement within 60 days. While discussions advanced on sanctions, frozen assets and regional security, disputes over Lebanon and sharp rhetoric from both Washington and Tehran underscored the fragility of the diplomatic process. Here are the latest updates: Pakistan and Qatar said US and Iranian negotiators made encouraging progress during talks in Switzerland. Mediators announced a roadmap aimed at reaching a final agreement between Washington and Tehran within 60 days. The two sides agreed to establish a de-confliction mechanism intended to prevent renewed military operations in Lebanon. US Vice President JD Vance said the American delegation had been instructed to pursue diplomatic solutions on several outstanding issues. Iranian officials said implementation of commitments in Lebanon would be a key factor in determining the future of the agreement. Talks continued overnight despite reports that Iran briefly revised its participation following comments by President Donald Trump warning Tehran over the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran said progress had been made on sanctions relief and access to frozen Iranian assets. Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem said the group would not accept any ceasefire arrangement that allows Israel unrestricted military activity in Lebanon. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that Israeli forces would remain in designated security zones in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza. Israeli media reported the military could begin reducing troop levels in parts of southern Lebanon after completing most offensive operations. US Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir greet each other ahead of talks at the Burgenstock resort in Switzerland, 21 June 2026 (Nathan Howard/Pool/AFP)