The United States is reportedly considering the use of Iranian assets to help finance reconstruction and repair efforts in Gulf countries affected by attacks linked to Tehran, adding a new dimension to already fragile peace negotiations between Washington and Iran.

According to sources familiar with the matter, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has instructed officials to assess the financial cost of damage caused to Gulf allies during the ongoing conflict. The review could form the basis for future decisions regarding the potential use of Iranian assets to compensate countries affected by attacks attributed to Iran.

The proposal emerged amid renewed military tensions in the region, despite a ceasefire intended to create space for diplomatic negotiations.

Ceasefire Under Pressure

The conflict, now entering its fourth month, has seen repeated military exchanges between the United States and Iran. While both sides have engaged in indirect negotiations aimed at securing an interim peace arrangement, progress has been slow.

A day before reports of the U.S. asset review surfaced, Iranian official Mohsen Rezaei stated that any long-term peace agreement would require the release of approximately $24 billion in Iranian assets currently frozen by the United States.

The possibility of redirecting those assets—or other Iranian financial resources—toward reconstruction efforts could further complicate negotiations.

New Military Escalations

The ceasefire came under renewed pressure over the weekend as military activity intensified across the region.

U.S. forces reportedly targeted Iranian coastal radar facilities in Goruk and on Qeshm Island, both located near the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. American officials said the strikes were conducted after Iranian drones were identified as potential threats to maritime traffic.

The U.S. military also reported intercepting additional Iranian drones in the region.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard subsequently announced retaliatory strikes against U.S. military facilities in Kuwait and Bahrain. Authorities in both countries confirmed missile activity, though most projectiles were reportedly intercepted before reaching their intended targets.

In Kuwait, military officials said several missiles crossed over residential areas, causing material damage but no reported casualties. Bahrain activated emergency sirens and advised residents to seek shelter during the incident.

Importance of the Strait of Hormuz

The ongoing conflict continues to have significant implications for global energy markets. Before the war, roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil trade passed through the Strait of Hormuz, making it one of the most important shipping corridors in the global economy.

Iran’s influence over access to the waterway has become a major factor in negotiations. Tehran has sought sanctions relief, access to frozen revenues, and the lifting of restrictions affecting its oil exports and port operations.

The disruption of shipping routes has contributed to higher energy prices and increased inflationary pressures in several economies worldwide.

Oil Markets and Economic Impact

Despite the ongoing conflict, the oil-producing alliance OPEC+ is expected to consider another increase in production targets. However, the war continues to affect output levels among some member states, limiting their ability to fully capitalize on higher quotas.

Rising fuel prices have become a growing political issue in several countries, including the United States. President Donald Trump has faced increasing pressure to help stabilize energy markets and support diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the conflict.

Trump recently stated that Iran’s missile and drone capabilities had been significantly reduced by military operations but acknowledged that the country still retains a substantial weapons inventory.

Diplomatic Efforts Continue

Despite recent military exchanges, diplomatic channels remain open. Pakistan has continued mediation efforts, with a senior minister reportedly delivering a message to Iran’s leadership in Tehran over the weekend.

Analysts caution that the proposal to use Iranian assets for Gulf reconstruction could become a major point of contention in future negotiations. While Gulf nations affected by attacks may welcome compensation efforts, Tehran is likely to view any seizure or redirection of its assets as unacceptable.

As military tensions and diplomatic negotiations continue simultaneously, the future of the ceasefire remains uncertain. The coming weeks are expected to be critical in determining whether peace talks can regain momentum or whether the region faces renewed escalation.