Iranian spokesperson Baghaei has claimed that the United States is prepared to allow Iran access to its frozen funds, while making clear that no new money will be provided. The statement marks a notable distinction between the unfreezing of existing assets and any additional financial transfers, underscoring the limited scope of what is being offered according to the Iranian side.

Key Details of the Claim

The following summarizes the core elements of Baghaei's statement as reported:

Context of the Statement

Baghaei's remarks highlight a specific boundary in the financial arrangements being discussed between Iran and the United States. According to the claim, the U.S. position permits Iran to access funds that have previously been frozen, but this does not extend to any fresh financial assistance or new monetary transfers. The distinction between accessing frozen assets and receiving new funds is a significant one in the context of sanctions-related financial diplomacy.

The statement, as attributed to Baghaei, represents Iran's characterization of the U.S. stance. No independent confirmation or counter-statement from the U.S. side is referenced in the available information. The development adds to the ongoing narrative surrounding financial negotiations and the status of Iranian assets held abroad.

Iran and the United States have finalized the text of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) scheduled for signing on June 19, which mandates the immediate end of the maritime blockade and a cessation of all military operations. Under the terms of the 14-article draft, Iran has agreed to neither produce nor acquire nuclear weapons, while the US has committed to lifting its naval blockade and releasing $24 billion in blocked Iranian funds. The agreement stipulates that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen within 30 days, with Iran reportedly allowing ships to pass through the route for free during the first 60 days. However, revised wording suggests Iran and Oman reserve the right to determine the future administration of maritime services in the strait, potentially allowing for toll collection later, a prospect the US has previously opposed.

Key Terms of the Agreement

The draft MOU outlines a 60-day period of technical negotiations to achieve full sanctions relief, including the suspension of sanctions on Iranian oil and petrochemical sales. A primary challenge for the US will be enforcing Iran's nuclear commitments, with the deal intended to be endorsed by a UN Security Council resolution. Notably, Iran's missile program and support for resistance groups are excluded from the final negotiations. While the US views the deal as a critical step toward preventing nuclear proliferation, significant mistrust remains between the parties.

Regional Reactions and Security Incidents

Despite the agreement, regional security concerns persist. The Israeli government has stated it will not withdraw forces from Lebanon and Syria, Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed. Meanwhile, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported an incident roughly 16 miles off the coast of Yemen, where a small skiff opened fire on a container vessel and attempted to board it. Former US President Donald Trump announced the deal was complete and declared the Strait of Hormuz open to traffic.