**Iran Deputy FM Expresses Willingness to Advance US Negotiations Amid Regional Tensions**
*Published: June 19, 2026*
Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, Saeed Khatibzadeh, has indicated Tehran's readiness to progress in diplomatic negotiations with the United States, contingent upon Washington's commitment to adhere to their recent agreement and ensure that Israel complies with the terms outlined in a memorandum of understanding (MoU). In an interview with Al Jazeera Arabic, Khatibzadeh emphasized that Iran is prepared to move forward “step by step” if the US demonstrates a similar seriousness in the negotiations.
Khatibzadeh's remarks come in the wake of the cancellation of scheduled talks between US and Iranian officials in Switzerland, which were set to take place on Friday. The cancellation followed escalating violence between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, where Israeli airstrikes reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 47 individuals, according to Lebanon's health ministry.
The MoU, signed earlier this week, includes provisions aimed at addressing a variety of issues, with Lebanon's ongoing conflict being a significant focus. Khatibzadeh condemned Israel's military actions, stating that its “continued war-making” would have “serious and immediate consequences.” He reiterated Iran's commitment to seeking peace across all fronts, including Gaza, and underscored that the resolution of the situation in Lebanon is essential for achieving broader regional stability.
Article 1 of the MoU explicitly states that ending the war in Lebanon is a critical component of the overall ceasefire arrangement. Khatibzadeh asserted that lasting peace and stability in Lebanon and the wider region cannot be achieved without addressing the occupation and ensuring Israel's compliance with international law.
In addition to the discussions surrounding Lebanon, Khatibzadeh addressed maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, stating that Iran will continue to provide navigation services in coordination with Oman and in accordance with international law. He noted that Iran would not impose passage fees during the initial 60-day period of the agreement but hinted at the introduction of a new mechanism for managing the waterway thereafter, which would be presented to regional countries.
Furthermore, Khatibzadeh insisted that any future agreements must incorporate the release of all frozen Iranian funds, a critical issue for Tehran in the context of its negotiations with the US.
Esmaeil Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, confirmed that necessary consultations regarding the US deal are underway through mediators. He indicated that an official announcement regarding the commencement of negotiations would be made once the conditions are deemed appropriate.
In terms of the ceasefire in Lebanon, a Hezbollah official conveyed to Al Jazeera that the ceasefire would remain intact as long as Israel adheres to the agreement. Meanwhile, Israel's ambassador to the US, Yechiel Leiter, expressed a commitment to an immediate ceasefire, stating that if Hezbollah respects the terms and ceases hostilities, it would lead to a period of quiet.
As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, particularly given the complex interplay of regional dynamics and the potential implications for broader US-Iran relations. The next steps in these negotiations will likely hinge on the actions of both Iran and Israel, as well as the responses from the US and other involved parties.