The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday night that President Obama sent Iran a cargo plane filled with $400 million in euros, Swiss francs, and other currencies to Iran just as the regime agreed to release four American hostages. This also came in addition to an executive order Obama signed that freed seven Iranian prisoners.
In January, Obama defended releasing the prisoners, arguing they were not charged with acts of terrorism.
"The individuals were not charged with terrorism or any violent offenses," Obama said. "They are civilians and the release is a one-time gesture to Iran given the unique opportunity offered by there moment in larger circumstances at play. It reflects our willingness to engage to advance our mutual interest."
Rather than acknowledge a ransom had been paid to win these Americans' release, Obama credited his recently enacted nuclear deal.
"Today’s progress, Americans coming home, an Iran that’s rolled back its nuclear program and accepted unprecedented monitoring of that program, these things are a reminder of what we can achieve when we leave with strength and wisdom, with courage and resolve and patience," he said.