Iran's Precondition: Unfreeze Billions
Newser • • world
Key Points:
- Iran demands access to approximately $24 billion in frozen overseas assets before serious negotiations with the US on ending the war can begin, with about $12 billion reportedly held in Qatar, which is mediating the talks.
- Iranian state media report progress toward a partial release of funds but no final agreement has been reached, according to the Tasnim news agency.
- The Trump administration insists Iran must first commit to giving up its stockpile of highly enriched uranium before any frozen funds are unfrozen, with President Trump stating the US will retain control of the money until Iran "behaves properly."
- The dispute over the frozen assets highlights tensions in US sanctions policy and Trump's criticism of the 2015 nuclear deal and prior financial settlements with Iran.
- Analysts note there are technical methods to release some funds without lifting sanctions fully, such as directing payments for food and medicine, as seen in a 2023 hostage agreement.