Iran Demands Half of Frozen Assets for Agreement with US

Kazem Garibabadi stated that at least half of Iran's frozen funds should be released upon signing in a possible agreement with the US.

Scraper SystemJune 06, 2026, 01:35 PM

Iran Demands Half of Frozen Assets for Agreement with US

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Garibabadi said that for any memorandum of understanding that could be signed with the US, at least 50% of Iran's frozen assets must be immediately released. Garibabadi emphasized that Tehran will only consider a draft agreement final if its interests and concerns are fully met.

First Condition: Half of the Funds Must Be Accessible at Signing

According to Garibabadi, at least half of the funds identified as belonging to Iran and described by the US as "illegally frozen" should become available as soon as the memorandum is signed. He added that the remaining portion should be released within one to two months after the agreement.

The official also noted that the technical and financial details of the mechanism for accessing the funds will be determined through further negotiations during the 60-day implementation period following the signing. This implies a separate process between the initial framework of the agreement and the implementation details.

Hormuz and Maritime Blockade Issue

Garibabadi stated that if Iran takes steps regarding the Strait of Hormuz, the US should lift its "illegal maritime blockade" on Iranian ports. However, he rejected the simplistic tit-for-tat interpretation reported in some media outlets.

"No, it is not like that," Garibabadi said, explaining that this is not a one-to-one exchange completed in a single move, but that the matter involves more comprehensive conditions. This statement indicates that any potential reconciliation between Washington and Tehran would address financial, sanctions, and maritime security issues together.

Negotiation Framework Remains Broad

Garibabadi’s remarks revealed that Iran seeks not only the return of frozen assets but also clear guarantees regarding the implementation schedule and mutual obligations. The official said the agreement would only be acceptable if all these elements are considered.

According to the Iranian official, the main topics on the table include the proportion of funds to be released, access timing, technical arrangements, and reciprocal steps concerning the maritime blockade. How the process will proceed depends on the outcome of subsequent talks.

Iran Demands Half of Frozen Assets for Agreement with US

Kazem Garibabadi stated that at least half of Iran's frozen funds should be released upon signing in a possible agreement with the US.