Iran Leader Says Trump Was ‘Desperate’ For Agreement

Iran’s Supreme Leader said he approved the US-Iran memorandum of understanding after receiving assurances

June 19, 2026: Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has publicly endorsed the recently signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Iran and the United States, despite admitting that he initially opposed the agreement. In a message to the nation, Khamenei said he granted approval only after receiving assurances from President Masoud Pezeshkian and senior security officials that Iran’s national interests and the interests of the “Resistance Front” would be safeguarded throughout the process.

Khamenei also claimed that US President Donald Trump was eager to secure the agreement and used every available lever to push it forward. He stated that Iranian officials had promised not to yield if Washington attempted to impose additional conditions during future negotiations. While supporting the framework agreement, Khamenei stressed that upcoming face-to-face talks with the United States should not be interpreted as acceptance of the American position.

The MoU, signed virtually by Trump and Pezeshkian, establishes a 14-point framework aimed at easing tensions between the two countries. The agreement includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz and sets a 60-day timeline for negotiations on sanctions relief, regional security and Iran’s nuclear programme. Khamenei’s remarks represent Tehran’s first public endorsement of the process, though he indicated that continued support would depend on protecting Iran’s core interests during future talks.