Trump Conditions Iran Asset Release

United States President Donald Trump stated on June 7, 2026, that Iranian assets will not be unfrozen until a lasting ceasefire agreement is reached to formally conclude the US-Israel war with Iran. This declaration, made during an interview on "Meet the Press," indicates a firm stance on the release of an estimated $100 billion in Iranian funds frozen globally due to sanctions.

Trump emphasized that any unfreezing of assets would occur only after a deal is finalized, contrasting with Iranian officials' suggestions that partial asset release could be a prerequisite for an agreement. The ongoing negotiations involve key issues such as the future control of the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear program. Iranian state media has reported that Iran seeks between $12 billion and $24 billion in frozen funds as part of a ceasefire deal, with half released upon signing and the remainder later.

Despite Trump's assertion of being "very close to a deal," Iranian military adviser Mohsen Rezaee indicated that negotiations are at a deadlock. The US unilaterally withdrew from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal in 2018, which had previously allowed for gradual access to these assets in exchange for curtailing Iran's nuclear program. Trump also expressed willingness to speak with Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, who has not been seen publicly since being wounded in US strikes.