The funds had been a part of a prisoner change to free 5 American residents.
October 12, 2023, 2:54 PM ET
• 5 minute learn
The United States and Qatar have reached a deal to dam Iran’s entry to $6 billion that was just lately unfrozen as a part of a prisoner swap, the deputy Treasury secretary informed lawmakers Thursday, sources informed ABC News. Confirmed with the information.
Deputy Secretary of State Wally Adeyemo informed House Democrats in a closed session that the cash “just isn’t going to go wherever anytime quickly,” the individuals mentioned.
The settlement comes amid US scrutiny of Iran’s function in supporting the terrorist group Hamas, which was behind final weekend’s unprecedented assault on Israel. The Biden administration has mentioned there isn’t any proof Iran was instantly concerned within the assault, however the White House has claimed Iran was complicit, given its many years of help for Hamas.
The authorities is going through calls for from lawmakers on each side of the aisle to refreeze funding within the wake of the violent battle.
Iran’s $6 billion in oil income was launched final month as a part of a prisoner swap between the United States and Iran, which resulted within the launch of 5 Americans. It is supplied for humanitarian functions solely and is below strict US surveillance.
The White House reiterated Thursday that Iran has not but tapped into this humanitarian fund.
National Security Council spokesman John Kirby informed reporters: “Not a penny of that cash stays in Qatari banks. … Not a penny has been spent.”
Presidential Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre listens to remarks from National Security Council Press Secretary John Kirby throughout a briefing on the White House on October 12, 2023, in Washington.Evan Vucci/Associated Press
However, Kirby was very cautious to not remark publicly on this new understanding to forestall Iran from benefiting from these funds.
ABC News White House correspondent Mary Bruce pressed Mr. Kirby on whether or not Iran may entry the funds if it needed.
“What I can let you know is that none of that file has been accessed and we’re monitoring all data as you’d count on,” he responded. “We’re monitoring that very intently. … We’re overseeing what could be evaluated and for what goal.”
Asked if he didn’t wish to talk about the problem due to issues that advised Iranian duty, Kirby once more emphasised, “What I can say is that Iran is particularly chargeable for these assaults.” It’s simply that we have not seen any concrete proof of involvement but, however as we mentioned, broadly talking, sure, they’re definitely colluding.”
There had been numerous questions concerning the fund through the press convention, however one reporter ended by asking, “About the $6 billion, are you saying that coverage hasn’t actually modified or is it simply that coverage has modified? I’m simply curious when you’re saying it’s simply modified.’ Don’t you wish to speak about any modifications that will have occurred within the final 24 hours?”
“Bingo! It’s the final time,” Kirby yelled.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken speaks to reporters earlier than boarding a airplane at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland, on his approach to Israel on October 11, 2023.Jacqueline Martin/Pool, Reuters
Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who visited Israel on Thursday to indicate help, additionally mentioned the $6 billion earmark would go solely to humanitarian provides, drugs and medical gear, including that “nothing within the fingers of Iran will ever contact Iran.” No,” he emphasised.
“We have strict oversight of the funds and reserve the fitting to freeze them,” Blinken mentioned.