Iran and US Establish Working Groups to Advance Nuclear and Sanctions Negotiations

Iran and the United States, along with mediator nations Qatar and Pakistan, have agreed to establish multiple consultation working groups to advance negotiations on key issues, Iranian officials announced on June 23, 2026. According to Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Araghchi, the four working groups will address sanctions relief, nuclear issues, economic reconstruction and development, and oversight and implementation. The parties have also agreed to immediately proceed with unfreezing $12 billion in frozen Iranian assets and will establish a liaison point to manage merchant vessel safety in the Strait of Hormuz, as well as a conflict prevention mechanism regarding Lebanon.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Kaylibar made clear that Iran will manage the Strait of Hormuz according to international law and national arrangements, stating the situation "will never return to pre-war conditions." He explained that a coordination center and communication hotline will be established to resolve potential issues within 30 days, though he emphasized the hotline is not for obtaining navigation permits—which follow a separate procedure. "The management authority of the strait is in Iran's hands, and we will solve problems," Kaylibar said.

The high-level committee overseeing negotiations met on June 21-22 in Switzerland to establish implementation mechanisms for a memorandum of understanding. Technical talks have concluded regarding the release of Iranian oil exports and related sanctions issues. The next phase of negotiations will be conducted under the high-level committee's supervision, with participation from Iranian Parliament Speaker Kaylibar, Foreign Minister Araghchi, US Vice President Vance, Pakistani Prime Minister Sharif, and Qatar's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed.

The agreement represents a significant diplomatic breakthrough after months of tensions. Both sides have signaled commitment to resolving longstanding disputes through structured negotiations, with the working groups expected to address the most contentious issues separately while maintaining momentum toward broader reconciliation.