Peace Talks Start As Strait Dispute Adds Tension

Talks between the U. S. and Iran are kicking off in Switzerland even as both sides argue over who controls a crucial waterway. Iran said Saturday it was closing the Strait of Hormuz because of Israeli actions in Lebanon, calling ship traffic unsafe. Yet U. S. military leaders reported 55 commercial ships moved through the strait that same day—carrying millions of barrels of oil—proving the route stayed open. American negotiators, led by Vice President JD Vance, flew in ready to discuss a 60-day truce and broader issues after a fragile deal was signed earlier this week. Trump weighed in on social media saying no tolls would be charged while talks continue, though he hinted at future levies if peace talks fall apart. Iran’s team, including top officials like Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and Abbas Araqchi, arrived to push for promises made in the agreement to be kept.

But the Lebanon ceasefire—supposedly the green light for these talks—looked shaky from the start. Israeli airstrikes hit southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley hours after the truce began, killing at least 20 people according to Lebanese sources. Hezbollah fired rockets back, and Israel vowed to keep defending its captured Lebanese territory even if it stopped new attacks for now. Iran accused the U. S. of not holding up its side of the deal, claiming Washington failed to enforce the truce beyond paper promises. Meanwhile, public opinion in Israel shows deep frustration: a new poll suggests most citizens believe their country gained less from the recent fighting than Iran did. Back home, the U. S. stressed it would protect shipping lanes to keep global oil flowing smoothly. Negotiations now face a tough balance—deliver on peace promises, calm tensions in Lebanon, and keep commerce moving without new conflicts. Neither side seems ready to back down, and the first days of talks will show whether this fragile pause can last.

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