President Donald Trump released the full text of his official statement early Friday, declaring that any damage to ships or cargo will be paid from Iranian funds currently held by the United States. The statement, which Trump called an 'official notice', says the measure is effective immediately and that damages 'may be very significant'. The announcement follows an earlier analysis by journalist Barak Ravid questioning the legality of using frozen Iranian funds for such compensation.
President Donald Trump released the full text of his official statement early Friday, confirming that any damage to ships or cargo will be paid from Iranian funds currently under U.S. control. The statement, which Trump called an "official notice", takes effect immediately and warns that damages "may be very significant."
The release follows a series of developments earlier this hour. At 01:07 Jerusalem, Trump issued a formal statement announcing the policy. The Zioneer reported on the statement at 01:22 Jerusalem, and at 01:24, journalist Barak Ravid (N12) raised legal questions about the move, noting that using frozen Iranian funds for private compensation would likely require a court order or new legislation. Analyst Yair Goldblatt also questioned whether the policy replaces or supplements earlier military threats.
The new policy is part of the Trump administration's broader approach to Iran. As The Zioneer reported on Wednesday, Trump said Iran needs investments after the U.S. caused billions in damage, adding that "someone will have to help — it won't be us." The administration has also detailed a nuclear oversight agreement and escrow arrangement (reported June 23). The statement follows extensive U.S. strikes on Iranian maritime infrastructure in recent weeks.
The legal and practical implementation of the policy remains to be clarified. Barak Ravid's analysis suggests that using frozen funds for private compensation may require a court order or new congressional legislation. The full text of the statement does not address these procedural questions.
4 developments
- DevelopingBarak Ravid questions legality of Trump's plan to pay ship damages from frozen Iranian funds
- DevelopingTrump reportedly set to grant Iran major financial relief within days, per Israeli media
- StrongTrump: 'Iran needs investments — we did billions in damage. Someone will have to help — it won't be us'
- StrongTrump clarifies Strait of Hormuz blockade applies only to Iranian-linked ships
Source and signal
- Internal intake