While the Biden administration denies any "interim" Iran nuclear deal is in progress, a recent report suggests ongoing diplomatic discussions and potential concessions. Behnam Ben Taleblu, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), questions the administration's claims, suggesting a potential "back-door" approach to negotiations.

Official talks to revive the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) stalled in late 2022, with the U.S. citing Iran's "extraneous demands." However, the administration maintains its commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Critics, including Israel and Saudi Arabia, fear the deal would provide Iran with funds to support regional terrorist activities. A State Department spokesperson reiterated that U.S. policy on Iran remains unchanged, emphasizing diplomacy as the preferred approach.

Recent reports indicate potential progress on a deal involving the release of American prisoners in exchange for the release of sanctioned Iranian funds held in South Korea. The head of Iran's Central Bank visited Washington in May for discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Furthermore, reports suggest the U.S. is pursuing an informal "political cease-fire" with Iran to de-escalate tensions.

Taleblu, co-author of the FDD memo, points to several recent meetings as evidence of continued dealings between the two nations. He questions the viability of an "informal arrangement" with Iran, emphasizing the country's history of hardball negotiation tactics. The FDD also notes the Biden administration's legal obligation to notify Congress of any such plan, which would then require a 30-day waiting period before funds could be released.

Taleblu expresses concern that any payment to Iran, even indirectly, could incentivize further hostage-taking. He stresses the importance of transparency with Congress and the American public on this issue. The White House did not respond to a request for comment.