First US-Iran high-level talks under Islamabad MoU conclude

This live blog follows the latest developments across the Middle East crisis, including regional diplomacy, maritime security, ceasefire negotiations, and economic fallout.

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Parties agree roadmap toward final agreement within 60 days

Published: June 22, 2026 | 01:22 GMT | by Web Desk

The first session of high-level talks between the United States and Iran under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding concluded on Sunday in Bürgenstock, with both sides agreeing on a roadmap aimed at reaching a final agreement within the 60-day framework set out in the accord, according to a joint statement issued by Pakistan and Qatar.

The talks mark the first formal high-level engagement since the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, which halted a conflict that had threatened regional stability, disrupted energy markets and international shipping routes, and raised fears of a wider war across the Middle East.

"The Lake Lucerne Summit was conducted in a positive and constructive atmosphere," the joint statement said, adding that encouraging progress had been achieved, including the establishment of a mechanism for further technical-level negotiations.

"In addition, a communication line between the parties has been formed for the period mentioned in paragraph 5 of the MoU to avoid incidents and miscommunication with the aim of safe passage for commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz," the statement said.

The parties also agreed to establish a "de-confliction cell," facilitated by the mediators, to help ensure adherence to the cessation of military operations in Lebanon in line with the provisions of the memorandum.

"Technical talks will continue for the remainder of the week at the Burgenstock resort on all issues," the statement said.

It added that the mediators would continue to do their "utmost to ensure that the negotiations continue to be conducted in a constructive atmosphere with the aim of reaching a final deal."

Pakistan and Qatar expressed "sincere appreciation" to the United States and Iran for their commitment to diplomacy and a peaceful resolution, while also commending friendly and brotherly countries for their continued support and valuable contributions to the ongoing negotiations.

Delegations remain engaged as implementation talks enter crucial phase

Published: June 22, 2026 | 00:00 GMT | by Web Desk

Negotiations Pakistan and Qatar between the United States and Iran under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding continued into the night on Sunday, with delegations remaining engaged in discussions aimed at advancing implementation of the agreement reached earlier this month.

A senior US diplomat quoted by AFP said the Iranian delegation remained at the Swiss venue and that the American side expected discussions to continue through the night.

The talks mark the first high-level implementation meeting since the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. The agreement, reached after months of mediation led by Pakistan and supported by Qatar, helped halt a conflict that had threatened regional stability, disrupted energy markets and raised fears of a wider war across the Middle East.

According to the US diplomat, discussions included efforts to address maritime security concerns and maintain freedom of navigation through one of the world's most critical energy corridors.

The talks included "clarifying some of the confusing messaging from Iran on the Strait and building deconfliction mechanisms to ensure the Strait will remain fully open," the diplomat said.

Separately, a diplomat familiar with the negotiations told AFP that the Iranian delegation was still engaged in talks with the United States in Switzerland, indicating that discussions were continuing beyond the formal opening session.

Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani on Sunday praised Pakistan's role in the diplomatic effort that led to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, describing the agreement as "an achievement that mediators have worked to accomplish over several months."

The negotiations come as international support grows for the diplomatic process launched under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. Countries including Qatar, Switzerland and Türkiye have welcomed the initiative and highlighted its contribution to regional peace efforts.

Speaking at the opening of the talks, US Vice President JD Vance expressed optimism that the negotiations could help reshape relations across the Middle East and praised the role played by mediators.

"We've found great partners in working with the Qataris and Pakistan," Vance said.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who participated in the talks alongside Chief of Defense Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, described the discussions as "a great day" and expressed hope that the process would contribute to peace, stability and economic prosperity in the region and beyond.

The talks are expected to continue as negotiators work to translate commitments under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding into practical arrangements and maintain momentum behind the broader diplomatic process.

For earlier developments, read our June 21 live blog here