Vice President JD Vance said even under the terms of the memorandum of understanding signed by the U.S. and Iran yesterday, Tehran will have to “comply fully and change their behavior” to receive economic benefits.
“The United States isn’t giving up a cent of money to Iran, and even the economic benefits, the sanctions relief, and so forth, that comes along with this bargain only happens if the Iranians perform,” Vance said.
He described the situation as a win-win, saying if Iran does not alter its behavior, the country’s military and nuclear program are still destroyed, leaving it less of a threat, while changes could lead to a “transformational relationship” with the rest of the Middle East.
“What is the benefit that the Iranians get that they didn’t have before? And the answer is nothing. They don’t get anything unless they change their behavior,” Vance added. Signs of change would include allowing “real” inspections of their nuclear infrastructure, Iran said. President Trump has taken credit for destroying Iran’s nuclear program. Vance said Thursday that Tehran would need billions to rebuild it.
“They need money to do anything … but in order for them to get any integration into the world economy, they’re going to have to show us and verify for us that they are changing their behavior,” Vance said.
Leaders including Sen. Ted Cruz have criticized the MOU, accusing it of giving money to Iran via sanctions relief. Vance said Thursday that officials “plan to brief Congress very soon,” but did not set a date or say who would be part of the briefings. Vance added he didn’t believe lifting sanctions on Iran would require congressional approval.
