Iran Speaker Rejects Trump Claim on Unfrozen Assets as $88 Billion War Request Faces Criticism
Updated
Updated · CNBC · Jun 25
Iran Speaker Rejects Trump Claim on Unfrozen Assets as $88 Billion War Request Faces Criticism
3 articles · Updated · CNBC · Jun 25
Summary
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Iran's unfrozen assets will not be steered into U.S. farm purchases, mocking President Donald Trump's claim that the funds would benefit American growers.
The White House said no money has left the channel and none will be released unless Iran meets the memorandum's terms, with any approved funds earmarked for U.S. food and medicine under American control.
Iran has repeatedly disputed that condition, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei saying any agricultural imports would depend on price and quality rather than U.S.-imposed terms.
$88 billion in supplemental spending sought by the White House for the Iran war, farm aid and Ebola response drew immediate Democratic opposition, while Trump also faced criticism from some Republicans over the truce and peace talks.
The dispute comes as tensions persist around the Strait of Hormuz, where a cargo ship was hit by an unknown projectile and Iran is reportedly exploring fees despite a 60-day pause barring tolls.