Iran reveals new mechanism to oversee ceasefire as US talks continue
Key Takeaways
- Iran announced the creation of a new "De-confliction Cell" to monitor ceasefire arrangements.
- Talks between Tehran and Washington are continuing in Switzerland under a 60-day negotiation framework.
- Negotiators are discussing the Strait of Hormuz, regional security and Iran's nuclear programme.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei says an ‘innovative’ monitoring system has been created to support long-term stability during negotiations with Washington
Iran has outlined a new mechanism designed to oversee the implementation of its ceasefire arrangements with the United States as negotiations continue in Switzerland on a broader agreement between the two countries.
Speaking in Burgenstock on Monday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said a new structure had been established to help ensure the long-term success of the ceasefire measures agreed under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
"Regarding Clause 1 of the Memorandum of Understanding, a mechanism was envisaged to monitor a lasting cessation of hostilities. In the presence of the mediators, this innovative mechanism was established, named the 'De-confliction Cell’, to ensure that the ceasefire in Lebanon remains stable," Baqaei explained.
Baqaei also said negotiators had agreed to establish a separate mechanism covering maritime navigation through one of the region's most important waterways.
"Concerning the issue of safe passage for ships through the Strait of Hormuz, it was agreed that a mechanism would be put in place," he added, noting the ‘significance’ of the move.
The talks in Switzerland bring together Iranian and US representatives as both sides work through outstanding issues outlined in the memorandum signed earlier this month.
Iran's delegation is led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi. The US delegation is headed by Vice President JD Vance, with White House envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner also taking part in the Qatar-Pakistan mediated discussions.
Negotiators are expected to focus on unresolved issues including a regional ceasefire, security in the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear programme.
The talks follow the signing of the US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding by US President Donald Trump at the Palace of Versailles on June 17.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian later signed the agreement, while Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also added his signature as part of the mediation effort.
The 14-point memorandum commits both sides to de-escalation measures and broader negotiations over a 60-day period. It also calls for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz toll-free during that timeframe, while the United States is required to begin the gradual lifting of its naval blockade on Iranian ports.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
