The prospect of a new agreement between the United States and Iran is reportedly hinging on the release of billions in frozen Iranian assets, according to a report Tuesday from IRGC-linked Tasnim News.
A source described as close to the negotiating team told the outlet that Iran is seeking the release of roughly $24 billion in frozen funds as part of a proposed memorandum of understanding currently being discussed between Washington and Tehran.
Under the reported framework, Iran would gain immediate access to half of that amount once the MOU is formally announced, while the remaining funds would reportedly be transferred during a 60-day negotiation period tied to broader talks between the two sides.
The report comes as the Trump administration continues indirect negotiations with Tehran amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, including disputes over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and regional proxy activity.
According to the report, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf recently traveled to Qatar in part to discuss mechanisms to unlock the first $12 billion and resolve obstacles related to the transfer process.
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“The Qatar talks were generally good and helped advance the overall negotiations. At the same time, it should not be forgotten that the United States is known as an unreliable party, and Iran is therefore approaching the issues with great caution,” the source said.
Qatar has increasingly emerged as a key intermediary between Tehran and Washington in recent months as both sides attempt to avoid further escalation while continuing negotiations over sanctions relief and economic access.
Iranian officials have publicly maintained that Tehran remains cautious about any agreement with the United States, repeatedly accusing Washington of violating past commitments. At the same time, Iran’s economy has struggled under sanctions pressure, inflation, and ongoing regional instability.
The report also surfaced as Iranian officials claimed Tuesday they were developing alternative trade and shipping routes aimed at reducing pressure tied to tensions near the Strait of Hormuz.
The Trump administration has continued applying economic pressure on Tehran while signaling that negotiations remain possible if Iran agrees to major concessions tied to its nuclear program and regional activities.
U.S. officials have not publicly confirmed the reported framework outlined by Iranian media.
Iran’s government has also not publicly disclosed whether any final agreement is close, though officials on both sides have indicated discussions remain active behind the scenes.
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