Trump administration considers unfreezing $20 billion in Iranian assets — after lambasting Obama for a similar move
Trump administration explores releasing $20 billion in Iranian assets amid talks
Two insiders close to the negotiations revealed that the Trump administration is evaluating the release of $20 billion in Iranian financial assets as part of ongoing discussions with Tehran. While progress appears to be nearing, some disagreements persist, according to the sources. The move could potentially serve as a catalyst for broader peace efforts, though details remain fluid.
Pakistani mediators, including Asim Munir, the country’s field marshal, have been pivotal in recent talks. Their third day of discussions in Tehran focused on aligning interests between the US and Iran. If successful, the next phase might involve face-to-face talks in Islamabad, sources suggested. This shift highlights the growing role of regional allies in brokering international agreements.
Historical context and current tensions
President Donald Trump has long criticized former President Barack Obama for a 2016 agreement that saw $400 million transferred to Iran alongside the release of four American detainees. The current consideration of unfreezing assets, however, is framed as a strategic move to secure a lasting resolution to the conflict. Despite this, some conservative factions may view the financial concession as a setback.
“Productive conversations with Iran continue, but we will not negotiate via the press,” stated White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly in a recent statement.
On Thursday, Trump announced a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, which has reportedly improved the atmosphere for negotiations. Concurrently, Iran declared it would fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz, signaling its willingness to ease regional tensions. Yet, critical issues linger, particularly regarding the duration of Iran’s uranium enrichment suspension and the retrieval of nuclear materials held in Tehran.
Debates over terms and potential outcomes
One proposed arrangement links the release of assets to Iran handing over its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. However, Iran has sought more than $20 billion in sanctions relief, according to a source. The talks are still in progress, with no definitive resolution yet. Axios initially reported the potential asset thaw, and recent updates from the White House underscore the ongoing deliberations.
“No money will exchange hands in any way, shape, or form,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post. “Iran had agreed to everything, including stopping uranium enrichment,” he claimed during a call with News Nation.
As the negotiations unfolded, Trump reiterated his stance on the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that Iran would “never close it again” and that the US and Iran would eliminate all mines in the vital waterway. He also downplayed NATO’s involvement, stating he “TOLD THEM TO STAY AWAY” after a call about the strait. These statements, shared alongside updates from Pakistani mediators, reflect the administration’s dual focus on economic and strategic concessions.
The possibility of Trump traveling to Pakistan to finalize a deal was mentioned earlier this week. A US official noted the president’s private interest in signing a peace accord abroad. However, logistical challenges and security concerns in the war-torn region cast doubt on the feasibility of such a trip, leaving the timeline uncertain.
This story has been updated with additional developments.
