Key facts
- A handful of Senate Republicans criticized Donald Trump's interim deal with Iran.
- Senator Bill Cassidy called the agreement the "worst foreign policy blunder in decades."
- The deal aims to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and prevent a "worldwide depression."
- Critics argue the deal makes concessions to Iran without curbing its nuclear ambitions.
- Senator Lindsey Graham initially expressed concern but later supported the MOU after a conversation with a US special envoy.
- Senator Thom Tillis is concerned about a potential $300 billion fund for Iran within the agreement.
A group of Senate Republicans has voiced strong disapproval of an interim agreement reached by the Trump administration with Iran, with some labeling it the "worst foreign policy blunder in decades." The deal, intended to end a 110-day conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, has drawn criticism for allegedly making significant concessions to Iran without adequately addressing its nuclear ambitions.
Senator Bill Cassidy, an outgoing Louisiana senator, stated on X that "Reagan is rolling over in his grave," arguing that Iran's nuclear program was not curbed and that the deal teaches Iran that threatening the Strait of Hormuz is effective. He contrasted the current situation with the pre-war period, highlighting that 13 service members are now dead and families have faced higher fuel costs, while sanctions are set to be lifted.
Administration officials defended the deal, asserting it would prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, citing a provision for Iran to destroy its enriched uranium stockpile through "down-blending." However, critics like Cassidy contend that the agreement is less effective than the one negotiated by Barack Obama in 2015.
Senator Lindsey Graham, initially expressing some concern that Iran's interpretation of the agreement differed from the US team's claims, later stated that the MOU would be beneficial after a productive conversation with US special envoy Steve Witkoff. He noted that the Strait of Hormuz would begin to open and hostilities would cease, while acknowledging that a verifiable deal on Iran's nuclear program remained to be determined.
Vice President JD Vance acknowledged Graham's statement. Meanwhile, Senator Thom Tillis expressed concern about a reported $300 billion fund for Iran as part of the agreement, emphasizing the need for details and a methodology, and questioning the long-term viability of an agreement that might only last the remainder of the current administration's term.
The memorandum of understanding is expected to be formally unveiled soon, with both sides having 60 days to negotiate a comprehensive final agreement. The conflict with Iran has resulted in thousands of lives lost and significant global economic impact. Earlier this month, the House of Representatives narrowly passed a war powers resolution to curb Trump's authority in Iran, with four Republicans voting with Democrats.