IRAN DEMANDS RELEASE OF FROZEN FUNDS! – Tehran says $24bn in assets must be returned before any peace deal with Washington
Iran has reportedly told the United States it will only sign a proposed peace agreement if Washington releases twenty-four billion dollars in frozen Iranian assets, setting up a major obstacle in negotiations aimed at ending months of regional tensions and conflict.
Reports from sources close to the talks say Tehran wants half of the money — around twelve billion dollars — released immediately once a memorandum of understanding is announced, with the remaining funds transferred within sixty days. The proposed agreement is also expected to include the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions relief, and commitments linked to Iran’s nuclear programme and regional ceasefires.
Officials close to the White House reportedly described the demand as “a deal Trump can’t take”, amid growing political backlash from Republican lawmakers and national security hawks who fear the agreement could strengthen Tehran economically and militarily. In effect giving them money and once they have it back, they could renege on the deal. Insiders, say, this is not a deal the world or the US should accept.
Iran’s frozen overseas assets are spread across several countries and financial institutions following years of sanctions imposed over its nuclear activities. It’s surely a deal that the world cannot accept, let alone Trump and the Whitehouse.
Analysts say the outcome of the negotiations could have major consequences for global oil markets, shipping through the Gulf, and stability across the wider Middle East. Oil prices have already surged close to one hundred dollars a barrel amid uncertainty surrounding the talks and security in the Strait of Hormuz.
