You're reading an excerpt from the Takeaway, where we break down the latest in US-Middle East diplomacy. To read the full newsletter, sign up here.
WASHINGTON — The transfer of several Americans from Iran’s notorious Evin Prison to house arrest is only the first step in a series of coordinated moves to secure their permanent freedom.
The detainees, including Siamak Namazi, Morad Tahbaz and Emad Shargi, are expected to remain at a hotel under Iranian guard until the country’s frozen energy revenue is transferred from South Korea to an account in Qatar, a process that people familiar with the arrangement say could take weeks or more.
Ali Vaez, the Iran director for the International Crisis Group who closely tracks the negotiations, warned of possible "'Argo' moments" before the Americans are released.
