Daijiworld Media Network – Washington
Washington, Jun 19: US Vice President JD Vance has postponed a planned trip to Switzerland where he was expected to lead a fresh round of negotiations with Iran over its nuclear programme, casting uncertainty over the future of the recently signed ceasefire agreement between the two countries.
The White House confirmed on Thursday that Vance's delegation, which had been preparing to depart, would delay its visit due to logistical challenges surrounding the negotiations. The announcement followed reports that Iran was also delaying the dispatch of its delegation amid continuing regional tensions.
Vance, who has increasingly become the administration's public face on Iran-related diplomacy, earlier defended the agreement during remarks at the White House. He said the deal allows the United States to provide economic relief if Iran complies with agreed conditions, while retaining the option to withdraw those benefits if Tehran fails to meet its commitments.
The postponement comes as the agreement faces criticism from some US lawmakers, including members of President Donald Trump's Republican Party, who argue that Washington has made significant concessions through sanctions relief and a proposed reconstruction package.
Meanwhile, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei appeared to support future direct negotiations with the United States, saying face-to-face talks would not amount to accepting Washington's position. His remarks were seen as a notable shift from the long-standing opposition to direct engagement that had characterised previous Iranian leadership.
The agreement requires Iran to dilute its stockpile of highly enriched uranium under international supervision and provide written assurances that it will not pursue nuclear weapons. Trump administration envoy Steve Witkoff reportedly told US lawmakers that Iran would invite inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to examine its nuclear facilities and assist in locating enriched material believed to be stored at various sites.
The delay in talks comes as shipping activity resumes through the Strait of Hormuz after the United States eased restrictions in the strategic waterway. Vance said more than 12.5 million barrels of oil passed through the strait overnight, describing the move as part of Washington's commitment under the agreement.
President Trump signed the initial pact with Iran on Wednesday, extending the ceasefire for 60 days while both sides work towards a broader settlement covering nuclear and security issues. While the agreement has helped ease pressure on global oil markets and financial systems, uncertainty remains over the timing and outcome of the next round of negotiations following the postponement of the Switzerland meeting.