The Latest: Iran says 'major progress' to end Lebanon war during talks

Key Points:

• High-level talks between the U.S. and Iran, mediated by Pakistan and Qatar in Switzerland, have made major progress toward ending the Lebanon war, with both sides agreeing to create a “de-confliction cell” involving Lebanon to enforce a ceasefire.
• The talks, part of a 60-day diplomatic process, focus heavily on stopping fighting in Lebanon between Israel and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia, as well as addressing Iran’s nuclear program, frozen assets, and oil exports.
• Despite a fragile ceasefire and a temporary lull in Israeli strikes, Israel insists it will maintain military presence in southern Lebanon and continues to reject any ceasefire that limits its operations against Hezbollah.
• Iran has reiterated its right to enrich uranium and linked success in negotiations to ending hostilities in Lebanon, while the U.S. maintains shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz is ongoing despite Iran’s claims of closure.
• Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu remains confident that Iran’s regime will eventually collapse due to military pressure, while Iran’s president expresses concern about potential domestic protests amid ongoing negotiations.