US Vice President JD Vance unexpectedly postponed a trip to Switzerland, where the next phase of Iran peace talks was expected to begin, citing 'logistical' complications.
However, developments on both sides suggest that the reasons for the delay go much deeper than scheduling challenges.
The White House attributed the delay to technical discussions between Washington and Tehran not being finalised, with Vance and the US delegation reportedly prepared to leave for Switzerland.
Iran appears reluctant to move quickly, with Tehran wanting to see evidence that Washington is implementing its commitments under the agreement before sending negotiators to Switzerland.
Lebanon is emerging as a major sticking point, with Israeli air strikes reportedly continuing in southern Lebanon after the agreement was signed, drawing criticism from Tehran.
The delay also comes as the agreement faces criticism from some Republicans and foreign policy hawks in the US.
The postponement does not appear to signal the collapse of the agreement, with both Washington and Tehran committed to continuing negotiations.
