Former U.S. President Donald Trump has asserted that funds recently unfrozen for Iran will remain under American control, despite the Biden administration’s agreement to release them as part of a prisoner swap. This claim directly contradicts assurances given during negotiations leading to the release of five American citizens detained in Iran. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei swiftly refuted Trump’s statement, declaring Iran intends to utilize the funds “freely.” The released funds, totaling $6 billion, were held in South Korea and transferred to Qatar before being made accessible to Iran. The dispute centers on the extent of U.S. oversight and whether restrictions will be placed on how Iran spends the money. The Biden administration maintains the funds are designated for humanitarian purposes, while Republicans, including Trump, express concerns about potential misuse. This exchange highlights ongoing political tensions surrounding the Iran nuclear deal and U.S.-Iran relations.