Iran Sets New Precondition for Islamabad Talks: Release of Frozen Assets

Tehran / Islamabad, Iran has introduced a fresh condition ahead of the crucial US-Iran peace negotiations scheduled to begin this weekend in Islamabad, Pakistan.
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that negotiations cannot start until two key demands are met: implementation of a ceasefire in Lebanon and the release of Iran’s frozen (blocked) assets abroad. He emphasized that these measures were previously agreed upon between the parties and must be fulfilled before talks commence.
Iran’s frozen assets worldwide are estimated to be worth between $100 billion and $120 billion. These include funds held in various countries due to international sanctions, with a significant portion previously inaccessible following the re-imposition of US sanctions.
This latest precondition adds complexity to the high-stakes talks, which are aimed at converting the fragile two-week ceasefire into a lasting peace agreement. The discussions, expected to involve US Vice President JD Vance and senior Iranian officials, will cover critical issues including the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions relief, and regional security.
Iran has described the release of its blocked assets as a “critical executive guarantee.” Some reports indicate Tehran is pushing for the unfreezing of these assets within a short timeframe as part of broader demands that also include lifting all sanctions and war reparations.
The White House and US officials have not yet issued a direct response to this specific condition, though President Trump has warned of renewed military action if the talks fail to produce results.