Trump lashes out at "fools" who oppose Iran deal amid bipartisan criticism
Updated on: June 18, 2026 / 7:56 PM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- President Trump referred to critics of the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding as 'fools' on Truth Social.
- Republican Senators Bill Cassidy, Ted Cruz, John Cornyn, Tom Cotton, Roger Wicker, Lindsey Graham, and Thom Tillis expressed concerns about the deal.
- Criticisms include that the deal does not curb Iran's nuclear ambitions, will provide funding for terrorism, and lifts sanctions.
- Sen. Bill Cassidy called the deal the 'worst foreign policy blunder in decades.'
- Sen. Ted Cruz stated that giving billions of dollars to Iran would be used to 'murder Americans.'
- Sen. Tom Cotton estimated that lifting sanctions could provide Iran with '$4.5 billion to $6 billion every single month.'
- Democratic Senators Chuck Schumer and Richard Blumenthal also condemned the deal.
- Sen. Schumer described the deal as a 'disaster' for the U.S., where 'Iran has won on just about every one of them.'
- Sen. Richard Blumenthal called it a 'seemingly disgraceful deal' and suggested it requires Senate approval as a treaty.
- Senate Majority Leader John Thune anticipates an administration briefing for senators early next week.
- Sen. Lindsey Graham offered a tepid endorsement after speaking with a Trump special envoy, citing potential economic benefits and cessation of hostilities.