Khamenei Backs US Memorandum Amid Domestic Safeguard Pledges

Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei confirmed on Thursday his authorization of a memorandum of understanding between Iranian and U.S. leadership, despite his personal reservations. The approval followed explicit assurances from President Masoud Pezeshkian and top security officials that the agreement would protect Iranian national interests and the "Resistance Front."

Editorial·June 18, 2026·reads: 3,057

Khamenei Backs US Memorandum Amid Domestic Safeguard Pledges

In a written message to the nation, Khamenei framed the decision as a calculated move contingent upon the accountability of the Supreme National Security Council. Pezeshkian has taken personal responsibility for the implementation of the terms, promising to resist any potential overreach from Washington.

Khamenei clarified that while the memorandum allows for future diplomatic engagement, direct negotiations with the United States do not signal an alignment with the "enemy's position." The directive underscores a delicate balance between pursuing a sanctioned diplomatic path and maintaining an ideological stance against perceived American demands.