According to Yonhap News, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) stated in an editorial on June 18 that "surprisingly, President Trump acknowledged America's vulnerability to Iran's oil weapon," declaring that the U.S. peace negotiations had essentially failed.
The WSJ noted, "Trump's characteristic honesty reveals his political intentions," emphasizing that this was evident in his explanation for why he negotiated with the Iranian regime.
During a press conference following the signing of the peace memorandum of understanding (MOU), Trump indicated that he was "not wanting to see an economic disaster," suggesting that the rising costs associated with a prolonged conflict influenced his push for a peace agreement.
The WSJ interpreted this as Trump being "gripped by fears of soaring oil prices and a declining stock market ahead of the midterm elections."
Furthermore, the editorial stated, "While the U.S. had options, Trump hesitated to take risks, ultimately conceding to Iran's economic pressure as public sentiment worsened and oil reserves dwindled during the two-month ceasefire period."
The Washington Post (WP) also criticized the peace agreement in its editorial the same day, stating, "While the U.S. paid a high price without achieving significant results, the Iranian regime has survived."
The WP highlighted that Trump referenced former President Herbert Hoover from the 1930s during his press conference to justify the agreement, suggesting that he was acknowledging being trapped by Hoover's legacy and expressing concern that he might be remembered as a president who brought about an economic disaster akin to the Great Depression.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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