A potential peace deal between the United States and Iran has hit a snag, with US President Donald Trump accusing Tehran of dishonesty just a day after expressing optimism about an agreement. The deal, mediated by Qatar and Pakistan, remains elusive as both sides present conflicting interpretations of the terms.
Trump's Changing Tone
On Friday, Trump lashed out at Iran on Truth Social, calling them "very dishonorable people to deal with" and alleging that leaked terms were fabricated. "What they said, including their weak and pathetic statement on having a deal, bears no relation to the truth... With them, there is no such thing as dealing in good faith. AMAZING!" he wrote, also accusing Iran of attacking Indian ships. This marked a sharp reversal from his earlier announcement that a deal was virtually done, with plans for signing in Switzerland by Vice President JD Vance during a G-7 meeting in Evian.
Iran's Stance
Iranian state media, including IRNA, reported that the deal would immediately unfreeze $24 billion in Iranian assets. They also claimed that the Strait of Hormuz would be managed jointly by Iran and Oman, and that Lebanon would be included in any agreement to end hostilities. The interim deal reportedly excludes Iran's nuclear program, which would be negotiated during a 60-day extended ceasefire. These "red lines" were widely shared on social media, leading Trump critics to cry "Taco" (Trump Always Chickens Out), prompting a strong rebuttal from the President and his deputy.
Vance's Clarification
Vice President JD Vance, seen as increasingly at odds with Trump on some issues, sought to bridge the gap with a post on X. He clarified that "Iranians are not receiving any cash, and no funds are being released for simply signing a deal or attending a meeting." Vance emphasized that the deal prioritizes US and allied concerns, with economic benefits flowing to Iran and the region only if obligations are met. He criticized "bizarre" reporting suggesting Trump is folding, stating, "The president is going to get us a good outcome, one way or the other."
Mixed Signals
Trump later reposted a message from Iranian Foreign Minister Seyad Abbas Aragchi, who indicated that the "Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding has never been closer." Aragchi urged media to avoid speculation, promising full transparency once finalized. Trump has repeatedly suggested a rift between moderates and hardliners in Iran's leadership. Meanwhile, US media has criticized Trump for his repeated claims of an imminent deal, with one count tallying 40 such assertions, drawing comparisons to weary travelers hearing constant flight delays.
