Washington: US Vice President JD Vance announced on Saturday that high-level talks with Iran could commence as early as Sunday. "We'll plan the talks when the principals from the Iranian government, also the Qatari and the Pakistani governments, arrive," Vance stated during an interview with Fox News, highlighting the potential for these discussions to start 'as soon as tomorrow.'

According to Anadolu Agency, Vance mentioned that the negotiation process is "always a little bit in flux," but confirmed that US envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff are already in position addressing "technical elements" of the talks. He also expressed confidence in Washington's ability to maintain the current ceasefire despite possible strategic differences.

The vice president hinted at a potential trip to Switzerland to join the negotiations, emphasizing the "delicate coordination dance" required by various diplomatic protocols. He noted that Qatar and Pakistan are keen on ensuring the discussions proceed appropriately. Vance further relayed that US President Donald Trump has extended an "outstretched hand" for a shift in Tehran's behavior, which could lead to a "different relationship" between the two nations. However, he acknowledged that the future of the negotiations largely depends on Iran's response.

Initially, a meeting in Switzerland between the US and Iran was slated for Friday but was postponed. Iran has declared its intention to send a delegation to Switzerland to pursue the "implementation" of US commitments on the memorandum and evaluate how Washington will "fulfill obligations."

In terms of oil trade, Vance reported a significant increase in oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz, with 16 million barrels passing through on Friday, surpassing pre-war levels. The US Central Command also observed an uptick in commercial ship movements, with 55 vessels safely transiting the waterway on Saturday.

However, Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters announced plans to 'close' the strait in response to alleged US breaches of commitments and Israeli ceasefire violations in Lebanon. Vance clarified that any ships being redirected in the area are done so for safety reasons and not due to an Iranian blockade, noting a 30-day period outlined in the memorandum of understanding for de-mining the strategic waterway.