Criticism Over 'Ransom Payments' to the Islamic Republic; U.S.: Financial Resources Only for Food and Medicine Purchases

The Deputy Spokesperson of the U.S. State Department, in a press conference on Monday, responded to criticisms labeled as 'ransom payments to the Islamic Republic' by stating to Voice of America that these funds—sourced entirely from Iranian resources—are intended solely for 'humanitarian transactions' including 'the purchase of food and medicine.' He added, 'This approach aligns with U.S. policy to ensure that sanctions do not impede the flow of essential goods and services to ordinary people—even in countries with problematic governments.' The Deputy Spokesperson emphasized that the released funds will remain under 'strict limitations' and stressed that the release of funds does not change the U.S. position regarding the 'destabilizing actions' and 'human rights violations' of the Islamic Republic. Vedant Patel assured that 'necessary measures' have been taken to prevent the diversion of released funds for unauthorized purposes. He stated that these 'measures' had been considered previously, indicating a consistent policy among administrations. He also mentioned that the case of 'Shahab Dalili' has not yet been classified as 'wrongfully detained.' The Deputy Spokesperson emphasized that in specific cases, 'personal cases' are actively reviewed, and discussions to assess indicators of unlawful detention continue. Patel refrained from commenting on 'specific cases' or 'details of ongoing negotiations' but reiterated the U.S. government's commitment to holding the Islamic Republic accountable for its actions. He also underscored the U.S. government's determination for the swift return of American citizens. Patel highlighted that the main goal of the U.S. government is the 'safe return' of American dual citizens, and ongoing negotiations are aimed at achieving this goal. User reactions to the potential release of dual nationals: 'The Islamic Republic's policy is piracy.' Tehran: The prisoner exchange with the U.S. will be within the framework of an 'understanding.' Exclusive: The European Union welcomes the change in the status of Iranian-American prisoners. The head of Iran's Central Bank announced the 'release of seized foreign exchange resources' in South Korea. Reactions from newspapers regarding the exchange of dollars with several dual nationals: conservatives: 'Victory without ransom'; government critics: 'Agreement out of necessity.' The U.S.: The released funds from Iran are for purchasing non-sanctioned items; users: 'It's shameful.'