US maintains sanctions on Iran while humanitarian funds are released
The United States has stated that sanctions on Iran will not be eased, even as Tehran gains access to six billion dollars in previously frozen assets as part of a prisoner exchange arrangement. This stance was confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which emphasized that Washington will not lift sanctions that target Iranian officials or policies. — U.S. Department of State
Officials from the American foreign policy apparatus reiterated the core goals behind these restrictions. The United States remains concerned about alleged human rights abuses by Iranian authorities, Tehran’s activity that could destabilize regional and international security, ongoing support for extremist groups, and Iran’s role in backing Russia amid the conflict in Ukraine. — U.S. Department of State
In a related development, the State Department confirmed a transfer from South Korea to accounts in Qatar, noting that President Antony Blinken approved the release of funds that had been unfrozen. The arrangement includes the exchange of five Iranian prisoners for five Americans detained in Iran. The disbursement of these funds is strictly controlled and directed toward humanitarian purposes, with the United States retaining oversight over the destinations of the money. — U.S. Department of State
The dialogue surrounding the prisoner swap reached a new milestone on August 10, when Washington and Tehran announced an agreement to proceed with the exchange. The broader context sees ongoing international scrutiny of Iran’s nuclear activities and regional behavior as key factors shaping the negotiations and accompanying sanctions policy. — U.S. Department of State
Previously, some European officials signaled concerns that the nuclear agreement with Iran could be reinterpreted or violated, highlighting the fragile balance between diplomacy and enforcement. The evolving situation underscores how the convergence of humanitarian considerations, strategic interests, and human rights concerns continues to influence actions on both sides of the Atlantic. — European policymakers, attributed