Tehran: Memo with U.S. to Release $12 Billion in Iranian Assets, White House Denies Deal

Iranian state television reported Saturday that a negotiated memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran includes the release of $12 billion in Iranian assets within 60 days. The report cited an unofficial copy of the document, which claims Washington will grant Tehran full access to these funds, allowing them to be transferred to Iranian or foreign banks without restrictions.

This report follows a previous denial by the White House on Wednesday of an IRIB (Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting) report detailing a framework agreement. That earlier report suggested the U.S. would commit to lifting naval blockades against Iran. The White House dismissed that claim as a "fabrication."

Adding to the conflicting information, U.S. President Donald Trump stated Friday that "there will be no financial transaction" at this stage, rejecting any immediate financial settlement. The issue of frozen Iranian assets, blocked due to U.S. sanctions, remains a significant hurdle in ongoing negotiations aimed at potentially ending the conflict in the Middle East.

Tehran has been actively seeking the release of its funds. The ISNA news agency reported Thursday that Tehran aims to unfreeze a total of $24 billion, with half to be made available upon the announcement of the memorandum. According to the Tasnim news agency, Iran is also requesting a clear mechanism to guarantee the release of the remaining funds, citing a "well-informed source."