Iran Rejects US Peace Deal Over Frozen Assets

By Afolabi Olaiya Idowu in world
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Washington / Tehran – June 14, 2026 — Iran has reportedly declined to approve a proposed peace agreement with the United States, with Tehran insisting on the immediate release of $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets as a key condition for any deal.

According to sources cited by Iranian media and analysts, Iranian negotiators are demanding the unfreezing of the funds as a “trust test” for the Trump administration.

This stance directly conflicts with statements from President Donald Trump and senior U.S. officials, who have repeatedly ruled out any upfront cash transfers or asset releases without verifiable Iranian compliance on core issues.

The proposed agreement, reportedly mediated with Qatari or Pakistani involvement, aims to end hostilities that have disrupted global oil supplies through the Strait of Hormuz. Key elements under discussion include:

  • A ceasefire and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping.
  • Limitations on Iran’s nuclear program.
  • Sanctions relief and access to frozen funds.

U.S. officials have described the deal as “performance-based,” emphasizing that no funds would be released until Iran fulfills specific commitments, such as nuclear restrictions and de-escalation measures.

Vice President JD Vance and other administration figures have stressed that Iran would receive “no cash” simply for signing an agreement.

In contrast, Iranian officials, including military adviser Mohsen Rezaei, have framed the $24 billion release — split into tranches — as essential for building confidence and breaking the current diplomatic deadlock.

They argue that the assets belong to the Iranian people and should be returned as part of any normalization process.

President Trump stated on Saturday that a deal was scheduled to be signed on Sunday, June 14, with the Strait of Hormuz opening “to all” immediately afterward.

However, Iranian sources indicate that Tehran has not yet given final approval, citing unresolved differences over the asset release and other guarantees.

The disagreement highlights longstanding mistrust between the two sides. Iran has long viewed the frozen assets — held in banks worldwide due to U.S. sanctions — as leverage in negotiations, while the Trump administration has sought to avoid repeating what it sees as past mistakes of providing upfront concessions without ironclad verification.

Failure to bridge this gap could prolong uncertainty in the Middle East and sustain volatility in global energy markets.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for approximately 20% of the world’s oil trade.

Negotiators from both sides continue behind-the-scenes efforts, but the asset dispute has emerged as the most significant remaining obstacle.

Analysts note that any final agreement will likely require careful sequencing to satisfy domestic political pressures in both Washington and Tehran.

Further developments are expected in the coming days as mediators push for a breakthrough.

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