The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has firmly denied media reports suggesting it agreed to release billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets, calling the claims “entirely false and unfounded.”
In a statement issued early Saturday, the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected allegations that funds belonging to Iran had been released, transferred, or facilitated through the country’s financial system. The ministry specifically dismissed reports mentioning the transfer of up to $3 billion, stressing that no such transaction had taken place.
The denial followed a Reuters report citing unnamed sources who claimed the UAE had agreed to unlock between $10 billion and $20 billion for Iran as part of efforts to reduce regional tensions following months of conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
According to the report, some sources alleged that a first tranche of more than $3 billion had already been made available, while others suggested the broader arrangement was linked to ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at ending hostilities and restoring stability in the region.
The UAE, however, maintained that no frozen Iranian funds had been released. While rejecting the specific claims, Emirati officials reiterated the country’s commitment to de-escalation and regional peace.
A UAE official stated that the country’s foreign policy is focused on reducing tensions and supporting initiatives that promote long-term stability across the Middle East. The official added that Abu Dhabi supports diplomatic efforts, including those led by the United States, to prevent further escalation and protect regional populations from the consequences of conflict.
The reports emerged as negotiations between Washington and Tehran continue over a potential agreement that could address broader issues, including sanctions, regional security and access to Iranian funds held abroad.
Neither the Iran nor the United States immediately provided detailed comments on the specific allegations. The UAE’s statement, however, sought to put to rest speculation surrounding any transfer of frozen Iranian assets through its banking system.