US-Iran Draft MOU Includes Immediate Release of $12 Billion in Frozen Assets

A draft memorandum of understanding under discussion between the US and Iran includes a provision for the immediate release of $12 billion in frozen Iranian assets, Iran's Fars News Agency reported. Sanctions relief and the release of frozen funds have emerged as central issues in the negotiations.

Fars reported on May 29 that the draft MOU under negotiation by Washington and Tehran contains a clause calling for the immediate disbursement of $12 billion in frozen Iranian funds.

The assets are part of Iranian money held overseas and frozen under US sanctions. Securing access to those funds has been one of Tehran's main demands in the talks.

The two sides have recently been discussing a broader agreement that includes an extension of a ceasefire, the resumption of nuclear talks and the normalization of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Key differences remain over limits on uranium enrichment and the scope of sanctions relief.

Traders and analysts are watching whether frozen assets are released as a key factor in determining whether Washington and Tehran can reach a deal. A final agreement remains uncertain because it still requires approval from the top leadership on both sides.