Iran, Qatar to Discuss Release of Frozen Assets

TEHRAN: Iran will hold talks with mediator Qatar on Wednesday to discuss the release of its frozen financial assets, the Foreign Ministry announced, while dismissing reports that a meeting with the United States is scheduled to take place in Doha.

Speaking at a weekly press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said the discussions would focus on implementing provisions of a previously agreed memorandum of understanding, particularly those related to the release of Iran’s restricted funds.

He clarified that the planned talks would take place solely between Iranian and Qatari officials, denying speculation that US representatives would participate in the discussions.

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Baqaei said the issue of frozen Iranian assets remains a key component of broader understandings reached between Tehran and Washington aimed at ending tensions in the Middle East.

According to the spokesperson, Iran has linked any lasting agreement with the United States to the release of part of its blocked assets, viewing the move as an essential confidence-building measure.

Under the memorandum of understanding, the United States has reportedly committed to eventually lifting sanctions imposed on Iran and ensuring that the country’s frozen assets become fully accessible.

Iran has faced extensive US-led sanctions and asset freezes since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which overthrew the US-backed Shah, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi.

Although no official estimate has been released, international media reports suggest Iran’s frozen assets are valued between $100 billion and $123 billion.