Former US State Department acting director for Iran affairs Joey Hood said the
current lull between Washington and Tehran is temporary, with both sides
rearming, resupplying and preparing for further action. He called the June
memorandum of understanding poorly drafted, saying it effectively lets Iran
claim sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz and influence over Lebanon, and said
there are no signs the memorandum will be revived or replaced amid a stalemate.
Hood identified Iran's demand for sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz as the
main obstacle to talks and predicted that if Iran restores free passage,
President Trump would reciprocate by lifting a maritime blockade and removing
oil sanctions.
