Tensions Escalate Between US and Iran as Switzerland Hosts Peace Talks

Jun 22, Kathmandu - Negotiations are underway in Switzerland to end the ongoing war between the United States and Iran. Amidst these diplomatic efforts, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a warning to Iran, prompting a strong response from Iran’s top negotiator and Parliament Speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.

On Sunday, President Trump took to Truth Social to threaten Iran, stating, “If Iran does not stop Hezbollah in Lebanon from fighting Israel, the United States will attack.” In response, Iran has asserted its readiness to defend itself against any aggression.

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf responded sharply to Trump’s warning, questioning, “Does he think that if his threats had any effect, he would be in the position he is today? No matter what he says, we are the ones who will take real action.”

Despite a recent agreement signed last week calling for a ceasefire on all fronts, including Lebanon, clashes between Hezbollah and Israeli forces in southern Lebanon have intensified. According to the Lebanese Ministry of Health, dozens of Lebanese civilians, including women and children, have been killed in Israeli airstrikes.

Amid rising tensions, the United States announced a new ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah last Friday. However, fighting and airstrikes continue. Meanwhile, Iran declared the closure of the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, although shipping data shows ships are still passing through the crucial waterway.

In a recent development, an American diplomat revealed that discussions in Switzerland aim to clarify Iran’s ambiguous stance on several issues, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz, halting hostilities in Lebanon, and implementing parts of the nuclear agreement.