Unlocking Iran’s Frozen Assets: A Key Move to Build Trust with Tehran, Says FM Araghchi

Tehran, IRNA – Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi has emphasized that unfreezing Iran’s blocked funds in various countries could serve as a crucial initial step for the United States to develop trust with Tehran. This statement highlights the ongoing complexities in U.S.-Iran relations.

In an interview with Al Jazeera Arabic, published on Friday, Araghchi recognized the formidable challenge of overcoming the entrenched mistrust that has characterized interactions between Iran and the U.S. He outlined several measures that could help build confidence, with the release of Iran’s frozen assets being a critical priority.

“We have a long relationship with America, and unfortunately, this history is full of very bad and negative events and positions to the extent of hostility and enmity with the Islamic Republic of Iran by America,” Araghchi stated.

He further elaborated on the historical context, noting:

• “Since the beginning of the Islamic Revolution and the establishment of the Islamic Republic of Iran, we were regularly faced with hostilities and actions from the U.S. against Iran.”
• “You mentioned the last example of the U.S. withdrawal from the nuclear agreement and other cases such as the assassination of Lieutenant General Soleimani, along with various attacks carried out against us.”
• “All these events contribute to a history filled with hostility and, most importantly, a history dominated by mistrust between Iran and America, a situation caused by the U.S. Of course, all this cannot be compensated with one word.”

Araghchi also pointed out that the Biden administration has adopted a hostile stance toward Iran, stating, “The former U.S. administration not only did not have favorable positions towards Iran but also maintained very hostile positions. The policy of pressure on Iran and severe sanctions against the country even intensified during the previous administration.”

This situation continues to evolve, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.