ByRICHARD OFFENBACHER, JAMES GENN, REUTERS

JUNE 17, 2026 14:01

Updated: JUNE 17, 2026 16:20

US President Donald Trump dismissed reports of a planned 300 billion dollar investment fund for Iran during press remarks on the margins of the G7 summit on Wednesday.

"We are not contributing even a small amount. Others may choose to participate, but that decision rests with them," he stated.

"We have no plans to invest, and there is no such fund from our side," he continued. "The reports circulating are simply inaccurate and based on a misunderstanding."

Trump emphasized that he was not encouraging Gulf nations to direct investments toward Iran either.

"We reached a balanced agreement that benefits everyone involved. Importantly, the United States is not committing any funds to Iran, and the rumor that surfaced yesterday was completely unfounded," he remarked, noting he would address the topic further at a later time.

The comments follow earlier reports suggesting a 300 billion dollar private fund aimed at encouraging investment in Iran had been referenced in the memorandum of understanding, with substantial commitments already secured.

A source familiar with the agreement explained to Reuters that the fund aims to create economic motivations for both parties to finalize a comprehensive peace accord.

The vehicle is structured as a private investment tool rather than a reconstruction or reparations initiative, and it excludes any public funding or grants, according to the source. Commitments have come from firms across the United States, Gulf Arab countries, Asia, South America, and Africa.

Trump Highlights MoU Benefits at G7 and Downplays Interest in Iranian Regime Change

Trump described the Memorandum of Understanding as advantageous primarily because it ensures Iran will be prevented from acquiring nuclear weapons.

"Should they pursue that path, severe consequences would follow, and they understand this reality," he added.

Addressing regime change, the president indicated he had never prioritized such an outcome.

"Previous leadership groups have largely been eliminated, and elements of the current group are also diminished," he noted.

"We are engaging with individuals who appear pragmatic and reasonable in their approach. They have shown willingness to negotiate constructively and demonstrate greater insight than prior factions, focusing on national interests without extreme positions," he elaborated.

"Historical attempts at regime change have consistently failed to deliver results," Trump observed.

Resilience of US-Iran Accord Amid Possible Israeli Operations in Beirut

Trump maintained that the memorandum would remain intact even in the event of Israeli military action in Lebanon.

"I view the situation with Hezbollah as a secondary conflict compared to the main issue with Iran, though it continues to surface periodically," he said.

"Israel has been engaged with Hezbollah for an extended period, resulting in significant loss of life. There is no need to destroy entire residential buildings when targeting individuals, given the many civilians who reside there and are unaffiliated with the group."

"I have proposed that Syria handle operations against Hezbollah, as they may achieve this more effectively. Should Israel prove unable to complete the task without widespread civilian harm, Syria could assume responsibility."

He mentioned prior discussions with Israeli officials regarding potential strikes on Beirut and expressed disapproval that such bombings occurred shortly before the agreement was finalized.

Trump clarified that the memorandum remains preliminary and that he retains the option to restart military actions if developments prove unsatisfactory.

"Should the terms fall short of expectations, we can resume operations and strikes directly. Noncompliance would lead to renewed bombing campaigns," he warned.

"Our agreement with Iran is now in place and positioned for success, moving into a subsequent phase that should prove more straightforward," Trump concluded.

The president drew comparisons between the current understanding and the 2015 nuclear accord negotiated under former President Barack Obama.

"Obama provided Iran with 1.7 billion dollars in cash payments. They attempted to use this to extricate themselves from obligations, and the Iranian response was to mock the decision," Trump said.

Trump expressed appreciation to Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani for contributions to the negotiations.

"Collaboration with Qatar proved productive. Their proximity to Iran placed them in a uniquely challenging position during talks," he noted.

"You faced heightened risks due to geography, yet you engaged with determination and courage. I want to acknowledge your efforts and express that our partnership will continue."