Five Americans Imprisoned in Iran Expected to be Released as Part of US-Iran Deal
In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, five Americans who have been imprisoned in Iran for several years are expected to be released as part of a wider US-Iran deal. The announcement was made by Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani during a press conference on Monday.
The US government has designated all five Americans as being wrongfully detained, and their release has been a priority for the Biden administration. The identities of the two Americans not publicly known have not been disclosed.
A source briefed on the matter revealed that a Qatari jet is on standby in Iran to bring the five Americans to Doha. The details of their travel arrangements are being coordinated to ensure a smooth and safe return.
As part of the agreement between the US and Iran, $6 billion in Iranian funds that had been held in restricted accounts in South Korea will be transferred to restricted accounts in banks in Qatar. These funds, which originated from oil sales under the Trump administration, will only be accessible to Iran for humanitarian purchases. Each transaction will be closely monitored by the US Treasury Department.
The release of the five Americans is a significant development after years of complicated indirect negotiations between Washington and Tehran. It demonstrates a positive step forward in improving diplomatic relations between the two countries.
In addition to the release of the Americans, the US has agreed to release five Iranians who are currently in US custody. The names and details of these individuals have not been disclosed.
The ongoing situation is still developing, and more information regarding the release of the Americans and the wider US-Iran deal is expected to emerge.