Rumors of $300 billion for Iran: why Bitcoin found itself at the center of a diplomatic scandal
US President Donald Trump has categorically denied rumors that Washington is preparing a $300 billion payment to Tehran. On his social media platform Truth Social, he called the information an "absolute fake" spread by Democrats. However, the discussion itself about a potential "reconstruction fund" for Iran has sparked heated debates in the crypto community, and investors have already begun calculating how this will impact the digital asset market.
The cause for concern was a preliminary memorandum of understanding, scheduled to be signed on June 19. Theories quickly began circulating online: many speculated that financial flows under this deal could go through Bitcoin or stablecoins.
What Lies Behind the $300 Billion Figure
Vice President JD Vance moved quickly to reassure the public during a CBS broadcast. According to him, Tehran will only see this money after fulfilling all its obligations. Moreover, the fund will not be financed by American taxpayers, but by the Gulf monarchies. "These are funds they can use provided they meet their obligations, and they will be financed by a coalition of countries," Vance noted.
Trump himself was even harsher, stating that the rumors about payments are a "fake spread by Democrats." The open draft of the agreement indeed contains no mention of direct payments from the United States. The essence of the agreements boils down to something else: any investments from Gulf countries will be strictly tied to Iran's behavior. Tehran will have to limit nuclear development, allow international inspectors, and fully open the Strait of Hormuz.
Why Cryptocurrencies Are at the Center of Discussion
The published materials contain no direct mention of digital assets. However, Iran's history with crypto has given speculators a reason for discussion. Authorities in Tehran have used cryptocurrencies for years to bypass sanctions. On June 2, the US Treasury imposed sanctions on four Iranian platforms, including Nobitex, the country's largest exchange. The department stated that in 2025 alone, more than half of all crypto transactions in Iran passed through Nobitex, most of which are linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Tehran has also proposed charging fees in Bitcoin from ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Bitcoin hit two-week highs amid expectations of a ceasefire — this dynamic liquidated approximately $246 million in short positions. The signing on June 19 will clarify the real terms. Until then, contradictions between Trump's statements and Tehran's position are likely to fuel interest in cryptocurrencies.
Expert opinion: The "geopolitics — crypto market" link is becoming increasingly evident. Iran has long used digital assets as a tool to bypass sanctions, and any new deal involving the country will inevitably spark speculation about the use of BTC or stablecoins. While diplomats argue, traders will continue to play on volatility.