UI Analyst: US-Iran MoU Could Ease Tensions, Israel Left Sidelined

The United States and Iran have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that serves as a foundation for both countries to continue diplomatic processes and discuss various strategic issues that have been sources of tension. Chair of the Centre for American Studies at the University of Indonesia, Suzie Sudarman, assessed that the agreement has the potential to ease the conflict that has been looming over the Middle East region. According to her, the main focus is now on the possible reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy trade. “Yes, clearly everyone is waiting for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Israel has been left behind by President Trump and cannot walk alone without Trump,” Suzie told Media Indonesia on Thursday (18/6). She assessed that Iran obtained the interests it had long desired through the agreement. On the other hand, both countries also have room to claim their own diplomatic successes. “Iran got what it needed; both countries can declare victory,” she said. Regarding who benefits and who loses from the MoU, whether from a geopolitical, regional security, or global economic interest perspective, Suzie believes both the US and Iran gain advantages. “While both the US and Iran get what they want, Israel is the one cast aside,” she stated. According to Suzie, Israel’s position is the most affected by the agreement because it potentially loses the full support previously provided by Washington in confronting Iran. Regarding the MoU’s sustainability in the future, including if there is a change in political leadership in the US or Iran, Suzie believes the chances of the agreement enduring are quite high. She emphasised that a memorandum of understanding is a common diplomatic instrument used in international relations. “MoUs are often made even if they do not materialise into a formal agreement, but it is safe because the US is more worried about Iran’s actions than Iran is afraid of the US,” she said. According to her, the strategic interests of both countries will be one of the main determining factors in maintaining the communication and diplomacy built through the MoU.