A senior Iranian official has asserted that Iran has achieved its first military victory in the nation’s 47-year history during a statement made on June 6. Mohsen Rezaei, a military adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, claimed that this development alters Iran’s standing in peace negotiations with the United States. He asserted that if fighting resumes, the US would allegedly “enter into a dark corridor.” This statement occurs amid stalled negotiations and a fragile ceasefire in West Asia.

Rezaei emphasised the gravity of the situation, stating that the current battle conditions fundamentally shift Iran’s position in discussions with the US. He articulated that US President Donald Trump now faces a ‘test of trust’ as the Iranian leadership demands the release of approximately $24 billion of Iranian assets frozen in international accounts.

Negotiations and Demands for Asset Release

Reports indicate that the resolution of ongoing negotiations depends significantly on the Trump administration’s decision to release these funds. Under a proposed agreement, Iran is said to be seeking to unlock $12 billion in blocked assets once an interim agreement is established, with an additional $12 billion to follow in a second phase.

Rezaei insisted that releasing this capital would signal Washington’s readiness to commit to a long-term agreement. He remarked, “The ball is in Trump’s court. If he wants to reach an agreement with Iran, this $24 billion is a test of trust that Iran wants to have with Trump—this is a test that America must pass.” He clarified that these funds are Iranian and not American, underscoring Iran’s claim to the assets.

With regards to the fragile ceasefire, Rezaei issued a warning concerning the potential ramifications of renewed hostilities, asserting that any further military actions would not be confined to the Persian Gulf but could escalate regionally.

Potential for Escalation and Maritime Sovereignty

Rezaei elaborated on the scope of any potential conflict, stating that it could extend from the Strait of Hormuz to several strategic waterways, including the Indian Ocean, Bab al-Mandab Strait, Red Sea, and Mediterranean Sea. While he noted that the likelihood of war remains low, he affirmed that Iran is prepared should talks collapse and the US initiate further attacks.

He highlighted Iran’s military strength, claiming that its land capabilities surpass missile power, which he suggested would become evident in the event of renewed conflict. Rezaei also dismissed the prospect of a meeting between Trump and Khamenei, citing current negotiation stalemates as a significant hindrance.

The official reiterated Iran’s longstanding position regarding the management of the Strait of Hormuz, stating that the waterway should be jointly governed with Oman. Rezaei proposed that ships passing through the strait should contribute to maintenance costs, arguing that Iran should not shoulder these responsibilities alone.

He also expressed scepticism about the viability of any future nuclear agreement, referencing the US’s withdrawal from the 2015 deal and what he described as an unclear approach to ongoing negotiations.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share