The United States and Iran have postponed the start of talks on a lasting peace agreement and limits on Iran’s nuclear programme. The meeting had been scheduled to take place in Switzerland on Friday but was delayed. Officially, the White House cited logistical difficulties. However, the decision comes amid intensifying fighting between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. One of the key sources of tension remains Iran’s demand for a ceasefire in Lebanon as part of an interim agreement with the United States.
Israel, meanwhile, has stated that it will continue military operations until Hezbollah no longer poses a threat to communities in the north of the country. As a result, the conflict in Lebanon is increasingly affecting broader negotiations on regional security and Iran’s nuclear programme.
Although the US–Iran talks in Switzerland have been postponed, Swiss authorities have reiterated their readiness to host them. Earlier, Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum that included, among other measures, an extension of the ceasefire, the lifting of the US blockade on Iranian ports, and Iran’s commitment to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
The planned negotiations are expected to focus on restrictions on Iran’s uranium enrichment activities and the future of its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. The parties hope to conclude the talks within 60 days, although experts believe this may be too ambitious a timeframe for reaching a lasting agreement.
The situation is further complicated by deadly clashes in Lebanon. Israel reported the deaths of four of its soldiers, while Lebanon’s state news agency said that 18 people had been killed in Israeli strikes. The escalation in violence increases the risk that diplomatic efforts will become more difficult, while the resumption of talks may depend not only on decisions made by the United States and Iran but also on developments along the Israeli-Lebanese border.
Brent crude oil prices edged up to $80.46 per barrel but were down by around 8% over the week, as investors expect improving supply flows through the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the recent decline, oil remains roughly 30% more expensive than at the beginning of the year.
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