Iranian Hardliner Threatens Non-Compliance: Tehran May Violate US Deal Unless Trump Delivers

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf issued a stern warning that Tehran would reject its commitments to a new U.S. memorandum if Washington fails to uphold its obligations, according to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) media outlet. He emphasized, “If the United States does not honor its commitments, Iran will not honor its own,” the outlet reported.

Commander Esmail Qaani of the IRGC’s Quds Force reiterated these concerns, warning U.S. officials during translated remarks that “Americans should respect their place and avoid provoking Muslims.” He also stated that President Trump “is trembling” and cautioned Washington about potential threats beyond Hormuz and Bab al-Mandeb straits.

Ghalibaf, a Key Figure in Iran’s Security Establishment, Faces Scrutiny Over Credibility

The memorandum, signed by Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, provides Iran with immediate economic relief while postponing complex nuclear issues to a 60-day negotiation process. Under the agreement, the U.S. will lift its naval blockade, facilitate a $300 billion reconstruction plan with regional partners, and remove sanctions on a phased schedule. In exchange, Iran pledged not to pursue nuclear weapons and agreed to submit its enriched material for future negotiations under IAEA supervision.

Ghalibaf, a former IRGC air force commander and longtime regime loyalist, has built his political career through unwavering allegiance to Iran’s security apparatus. His hardline stance includes threats against U.S. forces, vowing that Trump would “pay the price,” and asserting loyalty to Iran’s military hierarchy.

Experts warn that Ghalibaf’s influence poses a strategic risk, as his hardline posture may undermine the deal’s longevity. Critics highlight his history of corruption allegations, including misuse of oil revenues and sanctions evasion networks involving his family. His sons are under U.S. sanctions, and reports suggest family members made luxury purchases abroad despite economic hardships at home.

Analysts caution that while the agreement may provide short-term relief, Iran’s leadership—represented by figures like Ghalibaf—remains entrenched in its adversarial stance toward the U.S., Israel, and regional stability. The negotiator’s background as an IRGC insider and his Revolutionary Guard uniform during the signing ceremony underscore his alignment with the regime’s fervent anti-American rhetoric.

Ghalibaf’s remarks reflect a broader concern among hardliners that the deal fails to address Iran’s core objectives, including broader geopolitical influence and regional dominance. His warnings suggest the regime may leverage the agreement as a tactical pause rather than a path to normalization.

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