Iran’s top military adviser Mohsen Rezaei told reporters that peace talks with Washington have stalled over $24 billion in frozen Iranian funds, demanding $12 billion now and $12 billion later. The demand comes as the United States intercepted Iranian missiles aimed at the Strait of Hormuz and Hezbollah intensified fighting with Israel in Lebanon.

Iran's $24 billion frozen‑asset demand splits the talks

Rezaei, a seniior adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, framed the release of the funds as a "test of trust" that President Donald Trump must pass for any future agreement. According to the official, the first $12 billion would be unfrozen after an interim deal, with the remaining $12 billion released later. US officials, however, warned that unlocking the money would erode leverage over Tehran, a concern that has kept the negotiations at a deadlock.

Missile intercepts and radar strikes mark the latest military flare‑up

The United States Central Command reported that six ballistic missiles and one drone launched by Iran were intercepted, while a seventh missile missed its target, causing no casualties among US personnel. In retaliation, US forces struck Iranian surveillance radar sites on Qeshm Island and at Goruk, aiming to blunt further attacks on maritime traffic in the Gulf.

Hezbollah‑Israel clashes in Lebanon echo Tehran's bargaining strategy

In Lebanon,fighting between Israeli forces and Iran‑backed Hezbollah has surged despite a ceasefire signed by the Israeli and Lebanese governments. lebanese President Joseph Aoun told CNN that Tehran is using Lebanon as a bargaining chip against the US and Israel, pledging to do "whatever it takes" to keep his country out of war.. Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi rebuffed the claim, urging Aoun to "save Lebanon from your real foe," namely Israel, and noting that no deal has been reached.

Unanswered: Will Trump release the first $12 billion?

The core question remains whether President Trump will agree to unfreeze the initial $12 billion, a move that could shift the balance of power in the negotiations. US officials have not disclosed any concrete timeline, and the lack of a clear response leaves the diplomatic deadlock intact.