Donald Trump (File Picture)

A breakthrough deal could soon be struck between Iran and the United States. US President Donald Trump has personally shared this update, whilst also announcing a halt to potential strikes on Iran, signalling an end to the hostilities. Amidst these developments, Mohsen Rezaei, a senior military adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has made a major claim regarding the negotiations.

$24 Billion in Frozen Funds
Rezaei claimed that President Trump has agreed to release $24 billion (£19.2 billion) of Iran's frozen assets and funds. However, Rezaei noted that Trump prefers to keep this decision confidential and does not want it made public just yet.

Israel Strongly Opposes the Move

Israel is firmly against this decision. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly deeply opposed to releasing Iran's frozen assets as part of any deal with the US. Consequently, Israel is mounting significant pressure on the American administration to block the move.

A Critical Lifeline for the Iranian Economy
Due to decades of US and international sanctions, more than $100 billion of Iran’s wealth remains trapped in foreign banks. Out of this, Iran is demanding the release of $24 billion in exchange for a peace agreement—a sum that is vital for the country.

If released, this money could deliver a massive boost to the struggling Iranian economy by:
Boosting the foreign exchange reserves of the Central Bank of Iran.
Stabilising the exchange rate of the Iranian Rial.
Easing the import of essential goods, raw materials, medicines, and oil equipment.
Funding government expenditure and key national infrastructure projects.
For an economy battered by years of sanctions and conflict, this influx of capital would help curb soaring inflation and provide much-needed relief to the Iranian public.

A Deal Closer Than Ever
Reflecting on the ongoing negotiations, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi shared an update on social media.
"The signing of the Islamabad MoU is closer than ever before. Until it is finalised, the media should refrain from speculating about its contents. In line with our responsible and transparent policy, all details will be shared with the public when the time is right," Araghchi posted.