Sina Azodi, director of the Middle East Program at George Washington University, said the US‑Iran memorandum is effectively a ceasefire, not a peace settlement, and warned that until a final agreement is reached small-scale clashes, miscalculation or

2026-07-08

Sina Azodi, director of the Middle East Program at George Washington University, said the US‑Iran memorandum is effectively a ceasefire, not a peace settlement, and warned that until a final agreement is reached small-scale clashes, miscalculation or accidental fire could still reignite US‑Iran or wider regional conflict. He said the deal faces real spoilers, including opposition within Tehran and criticism from some Republicans in Washington. Azodi added that despite his broader criticisms of President Trump, he views the memorandum as the right step to halt active hostilities and bring stability to oil markets.