High-level negotiations between the United States and Iran have continued in Switzerland, with mediators reporting progress on key issues including Lebanon’s conflict, the Strait of Hormuz and Iranian frozen assets, according to diplomatic updates from the ongoing talks.

The discussions, part of a broader effort to end the regional war and stabilise tensions in the Middle East, reportedly produced early agreements on establishing mechanisms to reduce military escalation and maintain maritime security, even as disagreements persist over core political demands.

A key outcome of the opening phase of talks is the creation of a “de-confliction” mechanism aimed at reducing hostilities in Lebanon, where fighting linked to Israel and Hezbollah has intensified in recent weeks. The mechanism is intended to coordinate communication and prevent further military escalation while broader ceasefire arrangements are negotiated.

Another major development is the agreement in principle to establish a communication channel for the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route. The move is intended to prevent naval incidents and stabilize oil transport through the waterway, which has been repeatedly disrupted during the conflict.

The talks also include discussions on partial sanctions relief and the possible release of frozen Iranian assets, alongside limited waivers for oil and petrochemical exports as part of a proposed framework for a longer-term settlement.

Mediators from Qatar and Pakistan are reportedly overseeing a 60-day roadmap for continued negotiations, though tensions remain high. Iranian officials temporarily walked out of the talks following political disagreements, even as technical discussions continued behind the scenes.

Despite signs of progress, major issues remain unresolved, particularly the scope of Iran’s nuclear programme, enforcement mechanisms, and the role of Israel in the broader regional conflict. Both sides are expected to continue technical-level negotiations in the coming days as they attempt to build on early diplomatic momentum.

The talks are widely viewed as a fragile but significant step toward de-escalation in a conflict that has already reshaped security dynamics across the Middle East.