Iran media claims proposed US deal includes release of $12bn in frozen assets

Iranian state media has reported that a proposed memorandum of understanding between Tehran and Washington includes a plan to release $12 billion in frozen Iranian assets, adding a new layer of uncertainty to ongoing negotiations aimed at easing tensions between the two countries.

The report, published on Saturday, cited what it described as an unofficial draft of the proposed agreement. 

According to the report, the United States would allow Iran full access to $12 billion of its frozen funds within 60 days, enabling the money to be transferred and used without restrictions through approved banking channels.

The claims emerged amid conflicting public accounts from both sides regarding the content of a possible agreement intended to halt the ongoing conflict and reduce regional tensions.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump said no money would be transferred to Iran until further notice, a position that appeared to contradict reports circulating in Iranian media. Iranian outlets and sources close to negotiations have disputed that characterization and argued that access to frozen assets remains a central part of the discussions.

The issue of frozen Iranian funds has become one of the key sticking points in negotiations. 

Several reports have suggested that Tehran is seeking the release of billions of dollars in blocked assets as part of a broader framework involving sanctions relief, maritime security and nuclear-related commitments.

Iranian state television also reported that Tehran would continue to oversee the strategic Strait of Hormuz under the proposed arrangement. 

The waterway remains at the centre of regional tensions after Iran imposed restrictions on shipping during the conflict, disrupting global energy markets.

That claim differs from statements made by Trump, who has repeatedly said the strait should be reopened to unrestricted international shipping. 

Washington has also opposed any arrangement that would allow Iran to maintain exclusive control over one of the world‍‍`s most important energy transit routes.

Negotiations between the two sides remain ongoing, with major issues still unresolved, including the future of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile, sanctions relief and security arrangements in the Gulf region.

Neither the White House nor Iranian officials have formally confirmed the details contained in the reported draft agreement, and several elements of the proposed deal continue to be disputed publicly.