Frozen Iranian Funds Key to War Ending Talks with Washington

The release of frozen Iranian funds has become a central point in negotiations between Tehran and Washington aimed at ending their ongoing war, according to a senior Iranian official. Iran has faced asset freezes and sanctions from the United States and Western countries since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

“

If he (Trump) wants to reach an agreement with Iran, this $24 billion is a test of trust that Iran wants to have with Trump.

Mohsen Rezaei, an adviser to Iran's supreme leader, stated in a recent interview that talks are faltering over the release of these assets. He described the approximately $24 billion in question as a "test of trust" for President Trump, emphasizing that it is Iran's own money, not American funds.

While official figures vary, media reports estimate frozen Iranian assets to be between $100 billion and $123 billion. Iran has made the release of these funds a condition for any agreement to end the war, which erupted on February 28 following attacks by the United States, backed by Israel, on Iran.

“

This is a test that America must pass and the path will be opened.

Iran responded with retaliatory missile and drone strikes against Israel and U.S. allies. A ceasefire took effect on April 8, but diplomatic efforts to achieve a permanent settlement are ongoing. Iran also demands an end to hostilities on all fronts, including in Lebanon, where Hezbollah is engaged in conflict with Israel. Rezaei warned of potential escalation beyond the Gulf if hostilities resume but assessed the possibility of renewed war as low.

“

this is our own money, not America's money