U.S. and Iranian negotiators continue talks in Switzerland

Vice President JD Vance is leading the U.S. negotiating team, with discussions focused on Iran's nuclear program and the potential easing of U.S. sanctions.

(NBC)- High-stakes negotiations between the United States and Iran entered a second day after an extended first round of talks in Switzerland aimed at securing a broader peace agreement.

Vice President JD Vance is leading the U.S. negotiating team, with discussions focused on Iran’s nuclear program and the potential easing of U.S. sanctions.

“If they are willing to give up nuclear weapons ambitions for the long term, then the United States is willing to fundamentally transform our relationship with that country,” Vance said.

As negotiations continued, President Donald Trump issued a warning to Iran during a Sunday interview, saying the U.S. would respond forcefully if Iran attempts to close the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route.

Iran claimed over the weekend that it had closed the strait, though U.S. officials disputed that assertion.

Trump also threatened additional military action unless Iran reins in Hezbollah militants in Lebanon, whose ongoing clashes with Israel have raised concerns about the stability of a broader peace agreement.

Democrats criticized the president’s approach, with Sen. Cory Booker arguing the administration’s actions helped create the current crisis.

Despite the tensions, U.S. officials and mediators from Qatar and Pakistan say progress has been made. Negotiators have established a high-level committee to oversee technical discussions as they work toward a final agreement.

Officials hope to reach a comprehensive deal within the next 60 days, though significant challenges remain.