Former Vice President Mike Pence has sharply criticized President Trump's tentative agreement with Iran, labeling it a "plan to make a plan" that inadequately addresses the nation's threats. In an op-ed published in The Wall Street Journal, Pence commended Trump for decisive military action but argued the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed last week is insufficient.
Pence expressed concern that the 14-point MOU does not compel Iran to dismantle its nuclear program, cease uranium enrichment, or reduce its ballistic missile capacity. He also highlighted that the agreement allows for immediate economic benefits to Iran through sanctions relief and renewed energy exports, estimated at $5 billion per month, before security concessions are fully secured.
According to Pence, the U.S. should prioritize obtaining security concessions, such as an end to Iran's nuclear ambitions and support for terrorism, before providing economic relief. He suggested that the 60-day period should be used to achieve these goals, and if unsuccessful, the U.S. military should be allowed to complete its objectives.
President Trump, meanwhile, issued a warning to Iran amidst Israeli strikes in Lebanon, which have tested the MOU and delayed peace talks. Trump indicated that the U.S. might intervene militarily, stating, "We may take over the strait, if we have to. I’ll blow the s— out of them."
