Iran and US Reach Agreement on Frozen Funds and Oil Sanctions
Iran's Negotiator Announces Progress in US Talks
Tehran: Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran's chief negotiator and parliament speaker, has stated that an agreement has been made with the United States to release two installments of $6 billion in previously frozen assets, as reported by various news outlets. This announcement follows the US's decision to temporarily ease sanctions, permitting the sale of Iranian oil and petrochemicals until August 21. Ghalibaf expressed optimism about the outcomes of the US-Iran discussions, highlighting significant progress in areas such as the Strait of Hormuz, Lebanon, oil waivers, and the release of frozen funds. He emphasized that while these are positive steps, further efforts are necessary.
Earlier, Ghalibaf defended the decision to send a negotiating team to Switzerland, asserting that it was crucial in preventing further violence among Muslims and Shiites in Lebanon. He responded to criticism from Iran's state broadcaster, stating, “If we hadn't gone to Switzerland, every moment more blood would have been shed from the Muslims and Shiites of Lebanon.”
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US Treasury Eases Sanctions on Iranian Oil
The US Treasury has granted a 60-day license that waives sanctions on Iranian oil as part of a temporary agreement aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict with Iran. This license allows for the production, delivery, and sale of Iranian oil, remaining effective until August 21, according to reports.
New Iranian Stance on the Strait of Hormuz
During a press conference after the negotiations in Switzerland, Ghalibaf declared that the management of the Strait of Hormuz will not revert to its previous state, asserting that it will be governed by what he termed "Iranian arrangements." He also mentioned that Iran has agreed to set up a direct communication line and coordination center to prevent incidents and resolve disputes involving vessels in the strait. Ghalibaf stated, "Iran has never trusted the Americans and never will."