MOU falls ‘far short’ of what US should ‘demand’: Mike Pence

Former Vice President Mike Pence recently spoke with Trey Gowdy about the ongoing negotiations between the U.S. and Iran, specifically expressing his concerns about the current approach to peace in the Middle East. He emphasized the need for a verifiable agreement and noted his skepticism towards Iranian leadership, especially in the wake of a recent drone strike by Hezbollah that resulted in the deaths of four Israeli soldiers. Pence is advocating for stronger demands, particularly related to the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Pence referred to the Iran memorandum signed by President Trump as “kind of like an appeasement package,” a stance the president had previously rejected during his first term. He commended Trump for directly confronting Tehran and insisted that all Americans should welcome any opportunity for peace. Pence remarked that no one wants another prolonged conflict in the Middle East, despite the dismissive comments from some isolationists on the populist right.

However, he categorized the current agreement as “a plan for the sake of a plan.” He believes it does not sufficiently address the challenges posed by Iran.

There appears to be a split among Republican hawks and ‘America First’ conservatives regarding Trump’s strategy towards Iran.

Pence criticized the recent memorandum of understanding, indicating that it does not adequately combat the Iranian threat. He stated that it’s an example of the type of appeasement Trump had previously denounced. He expressed that the deal is not something a defeated Iran should expect and described it as lacking substance.

Pence noted that a strategy of maximum pressure had previously proven effective, including the utilization of U.S. military might and blockades. He suggested that Iran’s willingness to engage in negotiations stemmed from the regime’s precarious position.

This designated 60-day period should focus on achieving what the agreement currently fails to secure: halting Iran’s nuclear aspirations, ceasing Iranian-sponsored terrorism, and putting an end to decades of hostilities with both the United States and Israel. If these achievable goals remain unmet, Pence recommended that Trump allow military action to proceed.

Meanwhile, Fox News Digital has sought comments from the White House regarding these statements.