Speaking to reporters on June 17 in France during the G7 summit, Trump said, "If we don’t like it, we will bomb again." He reiterated that if Tehran fails to adhere to the agreement, war could resume, asserting that the goal of the MOU is to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
Trump criticized the 2015 Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) signed during Barack Obama’s presidency, calling it a "pathway to nuclear weapons." In contrast, he described the current MOU as a mechanism to block that path, stating that preventing Iran from developing or acquiring nuclear weapons is a primary U.S. objective.
According to a draft obtained by the Associated Press, the agreement includes a cessation of hostilities, resumption of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, diplomatic resolution of Iran's nuclear issues, easing of sanctions, and allowing the use of frozen assets. It also stipulates that follow-up negotiations should occur within 60 days, with the possibility of extending the deadline if both sides agree.
Regarding the release of frozen assets, Trump clarified, "That is not our money; it is their money," adding that it must eventually be returned. However, he drew a line, stating that economic benefits such as sanctions relief and investment resumption are contingent upon Iran fulfilling its commitments. He denied reports that the U.S. is pressuring Gulf nations to contribute to a $300 billion reconstruction fund.
The economic burden of prolonged conflict appears to have influenced this agreement. Trump noted, "If conflicts continue, oil prices could skyrocket and market instability could increase," emphasizing that he does not want an economic disaster. While international oil prices fell on expectations of reopening the Strait of Hormuz, they partially rebounded following his warning of potential military action.
On the issue of ballistic missiles, Trump adopted a more flexible stance, stating, "It is unfair for Iran to be limited in missile possession while other countries have them." This suggests that while nuclear development is to be curtailed, missile issues may be addressed separately in future negotiations.
The MOU serves as a starting point to halt military clashes between the U.S. and Iran, but negotiations remain regarding verification of nuclear activities, timing of sanctions relief, release of frozen assets, reconstruction funds, and missile issues. Trump's public mention of the possibility of resuming military action in the event of non-compliance indicates that tensions in the negotiation process are likely to persist.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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