ISLAMABAD: US-Iran negotiators in Switzerland’s Bürgenstock resort have agreed on a new mechanism for Lebanon known as a “deconfliction cell,” mediators Pakistan and Qatar said in statements cited by international media.
The deconfliction cell will monitor and help reduce military escalation in Lebanon, and support adherence to understandings linked to a cessation of hostilities discussed in the broader US-Iran framework, according to reports.
The mechanism was agreed alongside a wider 60-day roadmap toward a final agreement reached during the first round of talks in Switzerland, mediators said.
Parties involved
According to the joint statement issued by Pakistan and Qatar, the mechanism involves the United States, Iran, and Lebanese authorities, with facilitation by the two mediators.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi referred to the mechanism in a post on X, calling it the “first real test” of the Switzerland understandings.
Meanwhile, the Lebanese presidency said President Joseph Aoun discussed developments in telephone calls with US Vice President JD Vance, US presidential adviser Jared Kushner and Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, according to AFP.
Implementation structure
The mediators said the deconfliction cell will operate alongside a high-level committee and technical working groups established under the agreement.
The structure will include working groups on nuclear issues, sanctions and dispute resolution, as part of the implementation of the Islamabad memorandum, according to mediators’ statements cited by international media.
Media and official reactions
AFP reported that Pakistan and Qatar announced the creation of the deconfliction cell following the first round of talks, describing it as aimed at ensuring adherence to the termination of military operations in Lebanon.
Iran International reported that Lebanon was a central issue in the negotiations and said the mechanism forms part of indirect coordination structures involving the parties.
A senior US diplomat told CNBC that discussions covered deconfliction arrangements for Lebanon and the Strait of Hormuz, as well as efforts to maintain the ceasefire framework.
