If Iran receives $12 billion or even $24 billion under an emerging agreement with the US, it would not amount to a complete rescue of the Iranian economy. It would, however, provide the regime with a highly significant financial lifeline.
Iran imported approximately $72 billion worth of goods during the Iranian year that ended in March 2025. On that basis, $12 billion would cover roughly two months of imports, while $24 billion would finance about four months.
That is substantial for a country suffering from extreme inflation, continued pressure on the rial, shortages of hard currency and a dramatic decline in oil exports because of the US blockade and sanctions.
The immediate effect would likely be felt in three areas.