The 5 passages of the US-Iran peace deal that worry critics the most

Key Points:

• The 14-point memorandum of understanding signed by President Trump outlines a framework for 60-day negotiations to end Iran’s nuclear ambitions and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but several passages contain vague language that raises concerns about interpretation and enforcement.
• Key contentious areas include the immediate cessation of military operations in Lebanon, where Israel is not a party to the agreement and continues military actions against Iranian-backed Hezbollah, creating uncertainty about enforcement and potential future conflicts.
• The agreement’s clause on non-interference between the US and Iran omits mention of Iranian domestic protests, potentially limiting US support for opposition movements and raising questions about future US policy toward Iran’s internal affairs.
• Provisions regarding the Strait of Hormuz allow Iran and Oman to discuss administration and maritime services, which may lead to service fees for ships passing through, despite the strait’s status as an international waterway where tolls are prohibited under international law.
• The memorandum commits to a $300 billion reconstruction fund for Iran without specifying funding sources, and includes a vague promise to release frozen Iranian assets, raising concerns that funds could support Iran’s regime and terrorism rather than benefit the Iranian people or regional stability.