Republican hawks have issued an unusual criticism of Donald Trump regarding his planned agreement with Iran, calling it a potential disaster and questioning the initial decision to launch military action. Allies who had supported the president’s choice to begin conflict alongside Israel now urge him to maintain a firm stance amid rising economic pressures and limited advances on stated goals. As Iranian officials appear upbeat, some members of Trump’s party reacted strongly to reports of major concessions in the proposed deal. Senate Armed Services Committee Chair Roger Wicker described a rumored 60-day ceasefire as a disaster on social media, warning that gains from Operation Epic Fury would be lost. After indicating Saturday that an accord was near, Trump appeared to adjust his position Sunday following the backlash, stating that talks were advancing in an orderly way and that time favored the United States. The president had earlier said a memorandum to end hostilities was largely complete. The draft reportedly includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has blocked since the conflict began in February, in exchange for lifting a U.S. naval blockade and allowing oil sales during a ceasefire period. Nuclear issues would be addressed later. Several Republican figures expressed concern. Senator Lindsey Graham warned that the terms could shift regional power in Iran’s favor and harm Israel’s security. Senator Ted Cruz called the outcome a disastrous mistake and urged Trump to uphold his earlier positions. Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also criticized the reported terms as contrary to an America First approach.
