The peace talks going on behind the scenes between Iran and America have suddenly stopped. The deal, which was widely expected to ease tensions between the two countries and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most vital sea lanes, now appears to be in disarray. Iran alleges that the entire structure of negotiations is on the verge of collapse due to the obstructionist strategies adopted by the US. As a result, fears of a resurgence of explosive tensions in the Gulf region have deepened. According to Iran’s state media outlet Tasnim News, the main reason for this impasse is the issue of the release of Iranian funds (assets) currently frozen in foreign banks.
Iran has made it clear that unless America accepts this basic condition, no final agreement is possible. Tehran is adamant that the US should release its funds early in the deal; However, Washington has refused to accept this demand.
**America is adamant on freezing the assets**
According to Tasnim News, several rounds of talks took place between the two countries today; However, due to Washington’s stubborn attitude on certain conditions (clauses), no concrete result could be achieved. Iran alleges that America is continuously changing its stance during talks. The issues on which the two sides had earlier agreed are now becoming complicated due to new obstacles put up by the US, putting the entire process of negotiations in jeopardy. Citing a US official, CNN reported that Washington is adamant that Iran should first reopen the Strait of Hormuz, only after which its frozen assets will be released.