Trump hits back at critics as Iran peace deal fuels debate over U.S. concessions

President Donald Trump on Thursday lashed out at criticism over the terms of the interim U.S.-Iran peace deal, saying those who think he hasn’t been tough enough on Tehran were either “jealous, bad people or stupid.”

His comments come shortly after the U.S. and Iranian president signed a 14-point memorandum of understanding to extend the ceasefire, including in Lebanon, and reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

The deal sees both sides commit to further talks to reach a final agreement over the next 60 days and includes a $300 billion plan for Iran’s reconstruction as well as the removal of “all types” of U.S. sanctions against the Islamic Republic.

The agreement has prompted some to conclude that the terms appear to have strengthened Tehran’s hand.

“These fools, who think I haven’t been tough enough on Iran, when the Stock Market Just Hit A RECORD HIGH, and Oil prices are ‘tumbling’ down, are either jealous, bad people, or stupid,” Trump said Thursday via his Truth Social platform.

The U.S. stock market recently notched a fresh record high and oil prices have fallen on news of the Iran peace deal, although they remain significantly higher than prewar levels.

Iranian leaders have broadly sought to frame the agreement as a strategic victory. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described the memorandum of understanding as an opportunity to tackle Iran’s economic and political problems, saying it could help to create “a different world” in Iran and the Middle East.