In a significant diplomatic development, US Vice President JD Vance announced on Monday that Iran has consented to permit international nuclear inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to return to the country. Additionally, the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz has been officially reopened.
Speaking at a press conference in Burgenstock, Switzerland, following intense multilateral negotiations, Vance highlighted that the United States and Iran have laid a strong groundwork for future diplomatic engagement. He noted important progress in efforts to halt Iran’s nuclear program.
“The Strait of Hormuz has been formally reopened,” Vance stated. “Moreover, Iran has agreed to readmit IAEA inspectors into its territory.” He added that technical teams from both sides are currently finalizing the details of these agreements, with ongoing US-Iran technical dialogues expected to continue over the coming days and weeks. These discussions have advanced several unresolved issues.
Meanwhile, addressing the wider Middle East conflict, Vance emphasized Washington’s active pursuit of a comprehensive regional ceasefire. He revealed that US officials engaged in intensive talks on Sunday with representatives from Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and Israel to explore ways to halt hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.
“The United States aims to ensure effective coordination among all relevant parties concerning Lebanon,” Vance said. “We seek an end to Israeli strikes in Lebanon and full preservation of Lebanon’s sovereignty.” While reaffirming the US position that every nation has the right to self-defense, he underscored that the ultimate goal remains preventing a broader regional war.
