Iranian Official Signals Frozen Assets as Key to US Agreement

A senior advisor to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei has outlined the conditions necessary for reaching an agreement with the United States, emphasizing that the release of $24 billion in frozen funds represents a critical component of any settlement.

Speaking to CNN, the official indicated that current negotiations have reached a standstill, with both sides awaiting movement on core issues. He suggested that the Trump administration bears responsibility for shifting the dynamic and moving talks forward from their present deadlock.

The advisor also offered an assessment of military tensions, noting that the likelihood of renewed conflict has diminished considerably and is now considered unlikely. However, he underscored that the next steps in diplomatic efforts rest with Washington's leadership.

The remarks reflect Iran's position that financial measures—specifically the release of the substantial sum held in foreign accounts—form an essential prerequisite to broader negotiations aimed at normalizing relations between Tehran and Washington.