Tehran [Iran], May 27: Iran is demanding the release of frozen assets as negotiations continue following the latest fighting with the United States. Once a framework agreement between the warring parties takes effect, half of a total of $24 billion would have to be made available, the Iranian news agency Tasnim reported on Tuesday, citing an unnamed source from Iran's mediation team.
The remaining sum must be transferred within a 60-day period specified for the framework agreement by both warring parties, Tasnim added. The Fars agency also reported that no agreement would be possible without the release of funds.
Estimates of the total amount of Iranian funds frozen worldwide vary widely. Some of these include property or book values that may in reality be worth less. It was initially unclear where the Iranian figure of $24 billion originated.
On Monday, a high-ranking Iranian delegation led by chief negotiator and parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf travelled to Doha for talks. In recent days, both US and Iranian officials have spoken about the possible conclusion of a framework agreement aimed at ending the war.
The proposed deal is said by the sides to include a 60-day ceasefire extension to allow for further negotiations, as well as provisions related to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. However, accounts of other elements of the agreement have differed considerably. (DPA)
Source: Qatar Tribune
