The United States and Iran have announced a preliminary framework agreement intended to put an end to the ongoing conflict, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and lift the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports. This agreement reportedly includes a 60-day ceasefire designed for negotiations concerning Iran’s nuclear program. A formal signing ceremony is set for June 19th in Geneva, Switzerland.
However, critics and analysts from various political backgrounds have voiced doubts, primarily because many significant elements of the agreement remain undisclosed. Israeli officials, among others, have raised concerns about unresolved matters, including details related to Iran’s regional proxy network and the future limitations on its nuclear capabilities, which are postponed for future discussions.
To unpack these issues further, Glenn Beck spoke with Vice President J.D. Vance.
Glenn kicked off with some direct questions. “How do you negotiate with an apocalyptic regime? How can you ensure that, as the president mentioned earlier, support for your proxies will be cut off, missile programs will be terminated, and there’ll be no nuclear weapons? Honestly, how do you rein in people who believe they are living in the end times?”
“One of the key takeaways from President Trump is that you can’t trust anyone in international dealings,” Vance responded. “Trust is a rare commodity in negotiations.”
“I personally don’t put faith in words or promises. They’ve vowed to halt funding terrorism and to stop developing or acquiring nuclear weapons. Those commitments are there, but I focus on actions,” he added.
This mindset, he argues, forms the backbone of the entire peace agreement.
“The structure of this agreement is such that if they adhere to their promises, they will see substantial relief; conversely, if they fail to comply, they won’t receive any benefits,” Vance stated, maintaining that the U.S. is still in a “strong position” no matter how Iran reacts.
“With the Strait of Hormuz opened, oil prices are currently under $80. We continue to dismantle their military, weaken their defense manufacturing, and dismantle their nuclear ambitions,” he claimed.
If Iran behaves in a certain way, the U.S. will treat it “like a regular nation,” Vance added, emphasizing that Iran would face consequences while the U.S. remains resilient.
“The United States has all the leverage and isn’t hesitant to engage in these negotiations,” Vance remarked.
Glenn returned to his earlier question. “So there will be no support for proxies, missile programs will be halted, and nuclear weapons are off the table?”
“Exactly, Glenn. Otherwise, they won’t gain anything from the agreement,” Vance acknowledged.
Yet Glenn, who identifies as a Christian, expressed concern for the Iranian populace.
“It’s disheartening to witness a regime oppressing its own people who—putting it simply—are ‘eager for freedom.’ We had hoped that this would lead to a liberated Iran. But that doesn’t seem part of the larger strategy. Is a shift in power necessary for that to occur?” he queried.
“We are offering the Iranian people an opportunity. Their military capabilities have seen significant decline; it’s nearly decimated. If the Iranian populace decides to rise up and control their political destiny, the U.S. would certainly support their choice of governance, but we aren’t forcing that upon them,” Vance clarified.
“We aim to empower those who long for liberty, yet without coercing them to pick their government. Our primary interest is to pursue what aligns with our national security,” he continued.
According to Vance, the U.S. entered this conflict with a clear directive: to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear arms while ensuring its military capabilities don’t pose a threat to regional allies.
“That’s the outcome we are witnessing,” he summed up.
For additional insights, the full interview is available above.
