Republican backlash is growing within the United States over President Donald Trump's memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Iran.
On June 17, Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.) criticized the agreement on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "Reagan would be turning in his grave," and argued that Iran's nuclear ambitions remain unchecked. He added that Iran has learned that threatening the Strait of Hormuz is effective.
"Before the war, the strait was open, and Iran was under sanctions, with 13 servicemen still alive. Now, 13 Americans are dead, sanctions will be lifted, and bombings will cease. This is the worst diplomatic blunder in decades," Cassidy asserted.
Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) echoed these sentiments in an interview with conservative outlet Daily Wire, suggesting that the information released so far indicates the president is receiving very poor advice regarding the agreement. "Giving billions of dollars to the theocratic regime that wants to kill us is a bad idea," he stated.
Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) expressed concern over reports that the Trump administration is considering a $300 billion fund for Iran's reconstruction, stating, "I have no interest in an agreement just to get through the next two and a half years of the administration."
According to the Associated Press, Republican figures who have taken a hardline stance on Iran are opposing Trump's peace initiative. Senator Roger Wicker, chair of the Senate Armed Services Committee, criticized the 60-day ceasefire proposal as a disaster, claiming it would render all achievements from Operation Epic Fury futile.
Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo argued that the agreement resembles the Iran nuclear deal from the Obama administration, which Trump had withdrawn from, asserting, "It is not America First at all."
Political news outlet The Hill analyzed that dissatisfaction among conservative hawks is particularly pronounced. The Hill noted that Trump's comments at a G7 press conference, which seemed to acknowledge the necessity of Iran possessing ballistic missiles, have fueled controversy.
Trump stated, "Others have them, so they should have some too," which contradicts previous U.S. and Israeli objectives to dismantle Iran's missile capabilities.
According to The Hill, conservative commentator Ben Shapiro labeled the agreement a "disaster," while Eric Erickson criticized it as "America's surrender."
However, some voices within the Republican Party defended Trump. Senator Rand Paul (R-Ky.) remarked, "Wars almost always end in negotiations," and emphasized the need to allow Trump to find a "America First" solution.
Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) noted that the signing of the MOU could benefit the U.S. if it leads to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a cessation of hostilities with Iran, adding, "We do not yet know if this will lead to a verifiable final agreement, but there seems to be no significant downside to trying."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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