Iran insists frozen assets must be returned, dismisses ‘paper promises’ in talks

Rashmi Pandey — Mon, 18 May 2026 14:53:58 +0000

Iran has said significant disagreements remain in ongoing negotiations with the United States despite what Iranian sources described as “some changes” in the latest American proposal, according to statements published by Tasnim News Agency.

A source close to the negotiation team told Tasnim that “substantive differences” continue because of what the source described as American “greed” and a “lack of realism” in negotiations linked to the nuclear issue, sanctions relief and efforts to end the ongoing regional conflict.

The source also reiterated Iran’s position that Tehran does not intend to develop nuclear weapons and accused Washington of using the nuclear issue as a political excuse during negotiations.

According to the report, Iranian negotiators believe the United States is attempting to connect negotiations over ending regional hostilities with demands related to Iran’s nuclear programme. Tehran has reportedly rejected that approach and insisted that ending the conflict cannot be conditioned on additional nuclear commitments.

“The Americans need to understand that Iran will not agree under any circumstances that ending the war be in exchange for nuclear commitments,” the source told Tasnim.

Iran also maintained that its enrichment activities and nuclear technology remain sovereign rights and cannot be compromised during negotiations.

The report further stated that disputes continue regarding the return of Iranian frozen assets held abroad. Tehran reportedly insists that all frozen funds must be returned to the Iranian people through clear and guaranteed mechanisms rather than what the source described as “paper promises.”

Recent reports from Iranian media suggested that the latest US proposal may include temporary sanctions relief and limited waivers related to Iranian oil exports during negotiations. However, no official confirmation has been issued by the White House or the US State Department regarding the details of the proposal.

The negotiations are taking place amid continuing tensions in West Asia involving Iran, Israel and the United States, alongside concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, maritime security and crude oil supplies.

Diplomatic efforts involving intermediaries, including Pakistan and regional actors, are continuing as both sides exchange proposals through indirect channels.

No final agreement has yet been announced, and officials on both sides acknowledge that key differences remain unresolved.

FrozenAssets | Business Upturn

Iran insists frozen assets must be returned, dismisses ‘paper promises’ in talks