Iran Finalizes Deal for Release of $12 Billion in Frozen Assets, Parliament Speaker Says
TEHRAN, June 23, 2026 — Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has confirmed that negotiations held in Switzerland have concluded with the finalization of an agreement for the release of $12 billion in frozen Iranian assets.
According to Iranian officials, Ghalibaf and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi have traveled to Oman for talks concerning the Strait of Hormuz and broader regional security issues.
In a statement, Ghalibaf said the parties had agreed to establish a communication and coordination mechanism for maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. He said the initiative is aimed at preventing misunderstandings, military incidents, and regional tensions in one of the world’s most important shipping routes.
The Iranian parliament speaker further stated that the agreement reached during negotiations in Switzerland formally finalized the release of $12 billion in frozen Iranian assets.
He also said that the negotiating parties agreed to support guarantees related to the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Lebanon as part of the broader discussions.
Meanwhile, Iran has confirmed that restrictions on the sale of Iranian oil have been eased and that certain Iranian assets have been restored. Under the reported arrangement, Iran will be able to export petroleum products to global markets, including the United States, for a period of two months.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that restrictions related to Iranian oil purchases by North Korea, Cuba, and Ukraine remain in effect.
The developments mark a significant step in ongoing diplomatic efforts involving Iran, regional security, and international economic relations, while discussions continue over maritime stability in the Strait of Hormuz and the future of sanctions relief.
