Iranian media reported that a draft US-Iran agreement could unlock $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets and revive nuclear talks. (File Photo)Iranian media on Friday reported that a draft agreement between Tehran and Washington could pave the way for the release of $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets, alongside fresh nuclear negotiations and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.According to Iran’s Mehr News Agency, as cited by Arab News, the proposed framework outlines a series of reciprocal measures to ease tensions between the two countries following months of confrontation. Reuters, however, reported that Iranian officials cautioned that no final agreement has been reached.Frozen assets at centre of proposalThe release of Iranian funds held abroad forms a key component of the reported draft. Iranian media outlets, including Mehr, said the agreement envisages the phased unfreezing of approximately $24 billion in assets as part of a broader sanctions-relief mechanism.Access to frozen assets has been one of Tehran’s longstanding demands in negotiations with the United States. Reuters has previously reported that the issue remains central to efforts to revive diplomatic engagement between the two sides.Hormuz reopening, nuclear talksThe draft proposal also reportedly includes measures to ensure the continued operation of the Strait of Hormuz, the strategically vital waterway through which a significant share of global oil supplies passes. Iranian media reports cited by Arab News said maritime traffic would continue under a broader de-escalation arrangement.According to IRNA and reports cited by Reuters, the framework envisages 60 days of negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme following the signing of any agreement. The talks would focus on sanctions relief, uranium enrichment activities and longer-term monitoring arrangements.Trump hints at breakthroughUS President Donald Trump has suggested that negotiations with Iran are making progress and indicated that an agreement could be finalised in the coming days. According to The Guardian, Trump said diplomatic efforts had advanced sufficiently to postpone further military action.Story continues below this adTehran urges cautionIranian officials, however, have sought to temper expectations. Reuters reported that Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei described reports of an imminent deal as premature, stressing that negotiations remain ongoing and that key issues have yet to be resolved.The reported framework emerges amid renewed efforts to reduce tensions in the Gulf, where concerns over sanctions, maritime security and Iran’s nuclear activities have remained at the centre of regional diplomacy.The Express Global Desk at indianexpress.com which delivers authoritative, verified, and context-driven coverage of key international developments shaping global politics, policy, and migration trends. The desk focuses on stories with direct relevance for Indian and global audiences, combining breaking news with in-depth explainers and analysis. A major focus area of the desk is US immigration and visa policy, including developments related to student visas, work permits, permanent residency pathways, executive actions, and court rulings. The Global Desk also closely tracks Canada’s immigration, visa, and study policies, covering changes to study permits, post-study work options, permanent residence programmes, and regulatory updates affecting migrants and international students. All reporting from the Global Desk adheres to The Indian Express’ editorial standards, relying on official data, government notifications, court documents, and on-record sources. The desk prioritises clarity, accuracy, and accountability, ensuring readers can navigate complex global systems with confidence. Core Team The Express Global Desk is led by a team of experienced journalists and editors with deep expertise in international affairs and migration policy: Aniruddha Dhar – Senior Assistant Editor with extensive experience in global affairs, international politics, and editorial leadership. Nischai Vats – Deputy Copy Editor specialising in US politics, US visa and immigration policy, and policy-driven international coverage. Mashkoora Khan – Sub-editor focusing on global developments, with a strong emphasis on Canada visa, immigration, and study-related policy coverage. ... Read MoreStay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram