Iran's Supreme Leader Approves U.S. Memorandum While Rejecting American Demands

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei approved a memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States on June 18, 2026, despite expressing principled disagreement with the agreement. In an open letter to the Iranian people, Khamenei confirmed that President Masoud Pezeshkian and U.S. President Donald Trump had signed the memorandum. He stated that he granted approval based on assurances from Pezeshkian, as chairman of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, that the agreement would protect Iranian national interests and the rights of the "Axis of Resistance."

Khamenei characterized the U.S. position as one of desperation, claiming that Trump employed various tactics to bring about the agreement. He emphasized that future face-to-face negotiations would not signify acceptance of American positions or demands. The Supreme Leader warned that if the United States presented what he termed "excessive demands," Iran would refuse to compromise and would closely monitor the implementation of the memorandum's provisions.

Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf subsequently affirmed Iran's commitment to defending its principles, stating that negotiations represented a struggle for the rights of the Iranian people. He indicated that Iran would respond without hesitation if the adversary attempted to exceed agreed boundaries. President Pezeshkian responded to Khamenei's approval by pledging that the government and Supreme National Security Council would prioritize the protection of Iranian citizens' rights and national dignity throughout diplomatic negotiations. The approval represents a significant diplomatic development while underscoring Iran's insistence on protecting its strategic interests and regional influence.