GENEVA: Planned talks between the United States and Iran aimed at advancing a recently signed peace framework were abruptly canceled on Friday, as renewed Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon left at least 15 people dead and raised fresh concerns about regional stability.
The cancellation came after US Vice President JD Vance withdrew from a scheduled visit to Switzerland, where American and Iranian representatives were expected to begin discussions on implementing the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, a diplomatic agreement signed earlier this week by the leaders of both countries.
Swiss authorities confirmed that the meeting would no longer take place, citing unresolved arrangements surrounding the negotiations. The decision followed uncertainty from Tehran regarding participation in the talks, with Iranian officials indicating they wanted to see practical steps toward implementing the agreement before proceeding further.
Meanwhile, violence intensified in Lebanon as Israeli forces launched a series of overnight air and artillery attacks across the south. Local reports said several residential areas were struck, causing significant casualties and damage. The bombardment was described as one of the heaviest in recent months.
According to Lebanese sources, fatalities were reported in multiple towns, including Nabatieh and surrounding communities. Additional casualties occurred when homes were targeted and in a drone strike that hit a motorcycle near a municipal building.
Israel said the operations were directed at Hezbollah positions and were carried out in response to alleged violations of an existing ceasefire arrangement. The strikes have further complicated efforts to reduce tensions across the region.
The suspended talks were intended to build on the Islamabad Memorandum, which was electronically signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. The agreement aims to maintain a temporary ceasefire and create a pathway toward resolving disputes linked to Iran’s nuclear programme and broader regional security issues.
Under the framework, the United States agreed to ease certain economic restrictions while Iran committed to enhanced nuclear oversight measures and cooperation with international inspectors. The deal also provides a 60-day window for negotiators to reach a more comprehensive settlement.
Despite the breakthrough, both sides remain divided on key issues. Iranian leaders have insisted they will not accept excessive demands during future negotiations, while US officials continue to seek stronger limits on Tehran’s nuclear and missile capabilities.
The latest violence in Lebanon has cast doubt over the prospects of achieving a lasting peace. Although the agreement calls for an end to hostilities and respect for Lebanon’s sovereignty, military activity on the ground continues, fueling fears that the fragile diplomatic progress could unravel before substantive talks even begin.
