The US and Iran have signed a memorandum of understanding to begin releasing frozen Iranian assets, a development that could reshape oil markets and regional geopolitics.
The deal, reached around June 17-18, 2026, came after roughly four months of active conflict between the two nations.
What the deal actually says
The MOU outlines a phased release framework tied to a 60-day negotiation window. Iranian officials have pointed to as much as $12 billion potentially accessible in the early stages of that period, with a total figure of $24 billion on the table if conditions are met.
US officials have been considerably more measured. Washington has made clear that access to any frozen funds is contingent on Iran meeting specific commitments, primarily around nuclear program restrictions and transparency in maritime navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
