Iran has rejected a US assertion that International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors will immediately return to the country, after a first round of US–Iran talks in Switzerland aimed at a final deal to end the war. Vice‑President J.D. Vance had said IAEA discussions could begin “as soon as today,” and US officials described the negotiations as laying a “very good foundation.” Mediators Qatar and Pakistan announced a 60‑day roadmap toward a final agreement and confirmed progress on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and creating de‑confliction measures for a regional ceasefire.
But Iran’s foreign ministry told state media Tehran has made “no new commitments” on nuclear inspections, contradicting US statements. The diplomatic exchange comes as Washington temporarily waived key sanctions, issuing a 60‑day emergency licence that allows Iran to sell oil and petrochemicals in US dollars and reopens banking, insurance and transport channels for transactions until 21 August.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the waiver was tied to Iran’s pledge to keep the Strait of Hormuz open and to permit IAEA access. Vance and US President Donald Trump also signalled expectations of renewed inspections and broader weapons oversight, but Tehran’s denial highlights continuing gaps in the talks. Negotiators left the Swiss resort of Bürgenstock after initial meetings; technical discussions are expected to continue while mediators work toward the 60‑day timeframe.
