Former US Defense Secretary Mark Esper has expressed sharp concerns over the newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the United States and Iran, citing 'serious questions' about several parts of the agreement.
Speaking to NBC News' Meet the Press, Esper said he likes the fact that the ceasefire has been extended and the Strait of Hormuz is being opened up, but has concerns about the MOU's language that suggests Iran may retain the ability to impose fees on shippers after 60 days.
He warned that this could be a 'strategic setback' and that the US cannot allow Iran to control the Strait of Hormuz. Esper also expressed concerns about Iran's ability to survive US and Israeli military attacks, which he believes will embolden them going forward.
The MOU calls for a permanent end to fighting on all fronts, including Lebanon, and gives both sides 60 days to work out a final deal. The US has agreed to lift its naval blockade on Iran and pull back troops from the region, while Iran has agreed to allow safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days.
Esper also addressed Israel's absence from the MOU negotiations, saying it's unclear how much Israel was actually consulted, but stressed that Israel has a right to self-defense since Iran and Hezbollah pose an existential threat to it.
