- Tehran Cites Unofficial Draft Amid Conflicting Narratives from Washington
TEHRAN: Iranian state media reported on Saturday that a proposed memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Iran and the United States includes provisions for the release of $12 billion in frozen Iranian assets, despite Washington rejecting similar reports earlier this week.
According to state television, the information is based on an “unofficial” draft of the proposed agreement. A comparable report previously aired by Iranian media was dismissed by the White House as a “fabrication.”
Dispute Over Key Terms of Potential Agreement
The latest claims emerged one day after US President Donald Trump outlined what he described as a potential framework for ending hostilities between the two long-time adversaries. Several aspects of Trump’s account were subsequently challenged by Iranian officials and media sources.
State television reported that Washington had committed to granting Tehran unrestricted access to $12 billion of its frozen assets within 60 days.
“The United States has pledged to provide Iran with full access to $12 billion of its assets within 60 days, so that these resources can be transferred and spent in banks of Iran’s desired destination without restrictions,” the report stated.
However, Trump said on Friday that “no money will be exchanged, until further notice,” a claim that Iranian media, citing informed sources, quickly rejected.
Frozen Funds Discussed During Qatar Meetings
Earlier this week, a source told AFP that the governor of Iran’s central bank was part of a delegation that traveled to Qatar to discuss the issue of frozen Iranian funds.
According to the source, the matter is addressed in the proposed memorandum and could form part of a broader final agreement between Tehran and Washington.
Strait of Hormuz Remains Major Point of Contention
The Iranian report also asserted that Tehran would continue to oversee the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy corridor that Iran has blockaded since the outbreak of the conflict, contributing to volatility in international energy markets.
Trump, however, stated on Friday that Iran would reopen the strategic waterway to “unrestricted shipping traffic.” The United States has repeatedly maintained that continued Iranian control over the strait would be unacceptable given its importance to global oil and gas shipments.
Uncertainty Persists Over Prospects for a Final Deal
The contradictory statements from both sides highlight the uncertainty surrounding ongoing diplomatic efforts. While reports suggest negotiations may be advancing behind the scenes, significant differences remain over key issues, including financial sanctions relief and the future status of the Strait of Hormuz, raising questions about whether a comprehensive agreement can be reached in the near term.
BY: The Times Union
