A new round of negotiations between the United States and Iran began in Switzerland on Sunday, aiming to achieve a lasting resolution to the conflict in the Middle East based on the memorandum of understanding signed by both sides. Ongoing tensions in Lebanon, however, continue to pose a challenge to the agreement.

Tehran said the talks would address several issues, with the situation in southern Lebanon at the top of the agenda. The area has remained relatively calm since Saturday afternoon following two days of escalation between Israel and Hezbollah that threatened the U.S.-Iran understanding.

U.S. Vice President JD Vance arrived Sunday morning at the Bürgenstock resort in Switzerland to meet Iranian negotiators, marking the second direct engagement since the outbreak of the war and the first U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28.

Before departing for Europe, Vance told reporters that he expected progress on both the Iranian nuclear issue and efforts to secure a ceasefire in Lebanon, describing them as the main priorities of the negotiations.

Iran also emphasized that the Lebanese file would be a central focus of Sunday’s discussions.