Tehran selling deal with US as victory – but for Iranians it was necessity

Iran's leadership is attempting to frame its newly emerging memorandum of understanding with the United States as a victory achieved through resistance, despite the country enduring a damaging war, severe economic pressure, and internal political division. Senior officials, including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf and President Masoud Pezeshkian, claim the deal represents a strategic success since Iran avoided surrender, maintained its nuclear program, and kept ties with Hezbollah while securing potential sanctions relief. However, this narrative faces significant opposition from hardliners within Iran's own political establishment, who view the agreement as appeasement and betrayal of principles, particularly regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.