US envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi were both on their way to Switzerland for discussions, Axios reported on Friday, as a ceasefire in Lebanon seemed to kickstart efforts to transform a temporary Iran war agreement into a long-term regional solution. Israel and Hezbollah reached a ceasefire in Lebanon on Friday after intense fighting raised concerns over US-Iran negotiations vital for reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ensuring stable oil supplies. This development came after a 14-point memorandum was signed earlier this week by both parties to stop hostilities and establish a 60-day period to address disputes regarding Iran’s nuclear program, along with other significant issues necessary for achieving a more lasting agreement. US Vice-President J. D. Vance called off his plans on Thursday to travel to Switzerland for the talks, however, due to escalating tensions in Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah, which is supported by Iran. With the ceasefire now in effect, Witkoff was heading to Switzerland to meet up with Jared Kushner, President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, who was already there, according to Axios. Araqchi was scheduled to arrive there on Saturday as well, it noted. US Vice-President J. D. Vance (right) speaks during a news conference in April after meeting with representatives from Pakistan and Iran, as Jared Kushner (left) and Steve Witkoff, special envoy for peace missions, listen on. Photo: Reuters This move may indicate that both parties are looking to start technical discussions aimed at achieving a permanent ceasefire.
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