U.S.-Iran indirect talks end without progress; disputes over frozen funds persist

Indirect negotiations between the United States and Iran, mediated by Qatar, have concluded in Doha without yielding substantial breakthroughs. The talks, aimed at de-escalating tensions and addressing various bilateral issues, were marked by conflicting reports regarding a potential agreement to release $3 billion of Iran's frozen assets.

Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Majid Ansari, indicated that mediators from Qatar and Pakistan held separate meetings with the U.S. and Iranian delegations. He stated that "positive progress" was made on matters related to previous memorandums of understanding and that the parties agreed to continue discussions soon after the funeral of Iran's former supreme leader. However, U.S. officials have denied any agreement has been reached on releasing frozen funds.

According to Iran's state news agency IRNA, Iran's deputy foreign minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, raised issues during the talks, including alleged U.S. violations of a ceasefire in Lebanon and the buildup of U.S. military personnel and equipment in the Middle East. Iran also reportedly proposed establishing an urgent communication channel by July 2.

Reports from Saudi media outlet Al-Arabiya, citing sources, suggested a preliminary agreement to release $3 billion of Iran's $24 billion in overseas frozen assets. Gharibabadi confirmed discussions about the use of some of the $6 billion initial funds, with a plan to provide necessary goods to Iran based on its requests. However, U.S. officials have firmly stated that no such agreement exists and no frozen funds have been released. The Associated Press reported that while negotiators are working on specifics, significant disagreements over the Strait of Hormuz and Lebanon are likely hindering progress.