US-Iran talks postponed after Lebanon fighting, officials report
9 reported3 unconfirmed
Talks between the United States and Iran were called off Friday following intense fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, according to officials who spoke on condition of anonymity. The conflict between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group is described as the most precarious part of an interim Iran deal, which neither Israel nor Hezbollah signed. Israeli forces struck targets in southern and eastern Lebanon overnight, and Hezbollah reported intense fighting. Lebanon’s Health Ministry said at least 21 people were killed, and Israel reported four soldiers dead. A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah was later agreed upon, mediated by Qatar, the U.S., and Iran, according to two regional officials and a U.S. official. Iranian officials did not travel as planned to Switzerland for talks, insisting the fighting in Lebanon must stop first, and U.S. Vice President JD Vance also postponed his trip.
What’s reported
Talks between the U.S. and Iran were called off Friday after fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.
Israel and Hezbollah later agreed to renew their ceasefire, mediated by Qatar, the U.S., and Iran, according to three officials.
Lebanon’s Health Ministry said at least 21 people were killed; Israel said four soldiers died.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office did not immediately comment on the ceasefire.
Iranian officials canceled travel to Switzerland, insisting fighting in Lebanon must stop before talks.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance also postponed his trip to Switzerland.
The interim deal has halted hostilities in Iran and the Gulf and reopened the Strait of Hormuz.
Oil tankers began moving through the Strait of Hormuz this week; more than 12.5 million barrels were shipped on Wednesday night.
The Persian Gulf Strait Authority issued guidance Friday calling on ships to register, signaling Iran may intend to start charging tariffs.
Open questions
Whether the renewed ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah will hold.
How quickly Iran’s assets will be unfrozen under the interim deal.
The timeline for resuming normal oil and gas flow through the Strait of Hormuz.
Key figures
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
U.S. Vice President JD Vance
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei
Israeli military spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin
Mustafa Zain (Lebanese civilian quoted)
Sources: csmonitor.com
