US Agrees to Release Iranian Assets Ahead of Talks

An Iranian official confirmed the development on Saturday, describing the move as a “test of goodwill” by Washington before the start of formal discussions. The official added that the decision also reflects the seriousness of the United States in advancing the talks.

According to the official, the release of the frozen assets is directly linked to maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz. This means that if Iran ensures safe and uninterrupted navigation through the vital waterway, the United States will proceed with unfreezing the assets.

Earlier, Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated in a post on the social media platform X that talks with the United States in Islamabad would not begin unless Israeli attacks in Lebanon were halted and Iran’s frozen assets were released.

Due to US sanctions, a significant amount of Iran’s export earnings remains blocked in various countries around the world.

It is worth noting that following coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel on February 28, tensions between the two sides escalated into a 40-day conflict. Although a ceasefire was later reached through Pakistan’s mediation, the situation remains fragile.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has warned that military operations against Iran could resume if the talks fail. He also indicated that naval forces are already being armed in preparation for potential escalation.