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Trump Defends Allowing Iran to Keep Missiles as Versailles MOU Is Reported

The reported short-term memorandum leaves limits on Iran’s missiles unclear and raises fresh regional security questions.

Overview

  • A memorandum of agreement between the U.S. and Iran was reported signed in Versailles Wednesday and was described by officials as a short trial period to pause fighting and restart talks.
  • President Trump told reporters in France that he could accept Iran retaining some missiles, arguing they pose limited global risk compared with avoiding a wider war.
  • Sen. Roger Marshall echoed the president on CNN Wednesday night by saying Iran "have to be able to defend themselves" while adding he opposes long-range or nuclear-armed missiles.
  • Marshall’s comments prompted immediate online criticism for appearing to parrot the president and for shifting Republican messaging on what concessions are acceptable.
  • Key security questions remain unresolved because the reported deal does not clearly restrict long-range or nuclear-capable missiles, a gap that will shape reactions from U.S. allies, regional militaries, and the possible snap-back of sanctions.