The much-awaited peace talks between the US and Iran that began on Sunday have become deadlocked in the very first round. The atmosphere became tense due to the ongoing tension in Lebanon and US President Donald Trump’s sharp statement during the talks. The meeting could last only for 80 minutes. After the mediation of Qatar and Pakistan, the first round of peace talks was held in Bergenstock, Switzerland.
There was a brief pause in the months-long tension in the Middle East when President Trump signed an important agreement between the US and Iran. After this, 60 days were fixed for technical discussions on the 14-point preliminary agreement draft between the two sides. In this series, the first round of meeting regarding peace talks was held in Bergenstock, Switzerland on Sunday. But due to Israel’s ongoing attack on Lebanon and Trump’s threat, things seem to be worsening.
Iran walked out of the meeting after Trump’s threat
While threatening, Trump demanded that Iran immediately stop the activities of Hezbollah in Lebanon and clearly warned that if this does not happen, America may once again be forced to take military action. The Iranian delegation expressed protest against Trump’s statement and left the meeting for a while. But he also expressed his desire to continue the talks for some time and then the talks started.
Who participated from both the countries for peace talks
Vice President JD Vance was present to negotiate on behalf of America for this peace talks. At the same time, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi participated from Iran’s side. Trump also took a tough stance on Iran’s Strait of Hormuz, saying, “If Iran tries to close this strategic waterway, the United States will intervene.”
Iran did not participate in the group photo session
According to Iranian media, the Iranian delegation walked out of the meeting in protest against Trump’s statements and did not even participate in the group photo session afterward. However, The New York Times quoted sources as saying that the talks have not ended completely, but have been stopped for the time being. No clear information has been given by both sides regarding when and in what format the next meeting will be held.
The meeting between America and Iran lasted for about 80 minutes, in which topics like relief from sanctions and release of Iran’s frozen assets were discussed. This dialogue between the two countries was started with the aim of resolving issues like nuclear programme, regional security and economic sanctions, but deep rifts have emerged in the first round itself.