The US Treasury Department will take direct control over the release of frozen Iranian assets once the current conflict concludes, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed Wednesday.
Speaking on CNBC's "Squawk Box," Bessent detailed that the funds would be routed primarily toward US agricultural exports and pharmaceuticals, establishing a structured framework for economic reengagement under President Donald Trump's interim Iran agreement.
The announcement marks a pivotal shift in the administration's approach to Iran, moving from strict financial isolation to a managed release of capital.
By earmarking the funds for specific US sectors, the Treasury aims to leverage the unfreezing process to support domestic industries while maintaining oversight of Iran's financial rehabilitation.
This mechanism is designed to ensure that the release of assets serves broader US economic interests rather than simply restoring Iran's liquidity.
Markets are likely to interpret this development as a de-escalation signal, potentially easing geopolitical risk premiums that have weighed on energy and shipping sectors.