In a breakthrough agreement facilitated by the Gulf state of Qatar, five American citizens currently incarcerated in Iran are slated to return home. The group, comprising four men and one woman, who also possess Iranian citizenship, are poised to board a plane once the transfer of $6 billion (£4.8 billion) in Iranian funds, formerly held in South Korea, is confirmed to have reached banks in Doha.
This accord, which culminated after a year of indirect negotiations, also entails the release of five Iranians held in American penitentiaries, primarily on charges related to violating U.S. sanctions.
Those detained in Iran's infamous Evin prison have been given assurances of impending freedom on numerous occasions. Now, it appears that their long-awaited release is slated for Monday morning.
Among the detainees are reportedly 51-year-old Siamak Namazi, 59-year-old businessman Emad Shargi, and 67-year-old environmentalist Morad Tahbaz, who also holds British citizenship.
President Biden has faced sustained calls to secure the return of Americans widely perceived as pawns in Iran's diplomatic maneuvers.
For Iran, this agreement facilitates access to funds accrued from oil sales to South Korea. However, it's important to note that the funds placed in Qatari banks are earmarked solely for third-party use in procuring essentials like food and medicine.
The swap is intricate and has sparked controversy.
Leading U.S. Republicans and Iranian activists are decrying the move, contending that it may inadvertently incentivize further hostage-taking.
Nonetheless, this day is poised to be one of immense relief and elation for the detainees and their families.