Media: Iran fails to secure $12 billion cash release in Doha talks

A high-level Iranian delegation led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has concluded a visit to Doha without securing its key financial demand, marking a setback for Tehran in sensitive negotiations linked to ongoing talks with the United States, a source familiar with the discussions told Iran International.

According to the source, Iran had insisted on the immediate and unconditional release of $12 billion in cash upon signing an initial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Washington. However, Qatari officials rejected the request, agreeing instead to make available only half of the amount and under strict conditions.

A separate source close to a Qatari official involved in the talks said Doha refused to transfer the funds directly or in cash. Instead, the money will be provided in the form of a controlled credit line, allowing Tehran to purchase essential goods and products exclusively from Qatar.

The restrictions reflect strong opposition from the United States to granting Iran unrestricted access to liquid financial assets. Washington has raised concerns that direct cash transfers could provide Tehran with critical economic relief, enabling it to pay overdue public sector salaries and acquire military equipment or other goods from abroad at a time of heightened regional tensions.

Iran International previously reported that Tehran had made the full, unrestricted release of the $12 billion held in Qatar a firm precondition for advancing any preliminary diplomatic agreement or signing the proposed framework deal.

During the Doha visit, Ghalibaf explicitly requested liquid financial assistance to address mounting domestic economic pressures. Qatar’s counterproposal, however, effectively prevents Iran from using the funds at its own discretion, limiting spending to essential commodities within the Qatari market.

Despite the disagreement, the parties have reportedly agreed to keep details of the dispute confidential in order to avoid undermining broader negotiations with the United States. These talks are aimed at securing a regional ceasefire, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and establishing a framework for further diplomatic engagement.

By Tamilla Hasanova