Iran hails 'major progress' in US talks on Lebanon, economy

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Monday that high-level negotiations with the United States in Switzerland have yielded significant progress toward ending the war in Lebanon and securing sanctions relief, with Islamabad and Doha serving as mediators at the Lake Lucerne Summit in Burgenstock. The talks produced agreement on a de-confliction cell involving the Lebanese Republic to ensure adherence to the termination of military operations, according to a joint statement.

"1st real test: Lebanon deconfliction cell," Araghchi said on the social media platform X. His remarks followed a joint announcement by Qatar and Pakistan confirming significant progress in the diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran.

Economic relief detailed

Araghchi highlighted economic benefits emerging from the negotiations, stating that oil and petrochemical export waivers have been granted alongside the release of frozen assets. "Tireless Pakistani and Qatari mediation has delivered major progress to end Lebanon War. Oil and petrochem exports are waived, blockade lifted, some frozen assets released, and major reconstruction & development plan launched for Iran," he said.

National 'struggle' framing

In a separate statement, the Iranian foreign minister framed the diplomatic developments as part of a broader national struggle encompassing sports, diplomacy, and military efforts. "From the football pitch to the negotiating table to the battlefield, every step we take as Iranians is part of a larger struggle: defending the honor and dignity of our dear people," he said.