Trump Refuses to Unfreeze Iranian Assets Before Deal

US President Donald Trump stated in an NBC interview that the United States will not unfreeze Iranian assets or lift specific sanctions until a deal with Tehran is finalized. Trump emphasized that these actions would only occur after Iran demonstrates “good” behavior and completes necessary requirements, according to reports from AFP on June 7, 2026.

Why is the US refusing to release Iranian assets?

President Trump explicitly rejected the idea of releasing frozen funds as a prerequisite for a potential agreement. He told NBC that such moves would happen “afterwards,” provided Iran “behaves good” and “does the job.”

This stance comes as Iran continues to demand the release of billions in frozen assets. The tension centers on whether these funds serve as a bargaining chip or a reward for compliance.

Did You Know? The US Treasury Department is currently considering the possibility of using Iran’s frozen assets to compensate Gulf nations for damages resulting from Iranian attacks.

How does enriched uranium impact the deal?

The fate of enriched uranium remains one of the most difficult obstacles to ending the war launched by the United States and Israel against Iran. Trump asserted that he knows the exact location of the uranium and intends to have it removed.

Full interview: Trump says Iran ‘is not an endless war’ as conflict reaches 100 days

According to the President, a friendly agreement would allow all parties to work together to retrieve and destroy the material. However, it remains unclear if Trump would deploy US troops to ensure the uranium is recovered.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter suggests that the administration is utilizing a high-leverage strategy. By decoupling the release of assets from the initial negotiations and prioritizing the destruction of uranium, the US is attempting to secure a permanent security win before offering financial concessions.

What could happen next in US-Iran negotiations?

A potential breakthrough may depend on Iran’s willingness to cooperate on the removal of enriched uranium. If a deal is reached, the US could then begin discussions regarding the lifting of sanctions.

Alternatively, the US Treasury may move forward with plans to redirect frozen billions toward Gulf state reparations. Such a move could further complicate Tehran’s demands for the return of its assets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will President Trump unfreeze Iranian assets as part of a potential deal?
No. Trump stated that assets will not be released before a deal is reached, but only after Iran behaves well and completes its obligations.

What is the US Treasury considering regarding the frozen funds?
The Treasury is exploring the possibility of using those assets to provide compensation to Gulf nations for damages caused by Iranian attacks.

What is Trump’s position on Iran’s enriched uranium?
Trump stated he knows where the uranium is and wants it taken and destroyed, though he has not specified if US troops would be used for this purpose.

Do you believe the removal of enriched uranium is the most critical step for a lasting peace agreement in the region?