U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee told Newsmax on Sunday that the memorandum of understanding signed June 17 between the United States and Iran should not be mistaken for a final agreement, emphasizing that it merely creates a framework for continued negotiations.
Speaking with Newsmax Middle East correspondent Jodie Cohen at the JNS International Policy Summit in Jerusalem, Huckabee said the recent ceasefire and diplomatic efforts had created an opportunity for further talks.
"I think the ceasefire has given everybody the opportunity to catch their breath," Huckabee said in a segment that aired on Newsmax's "Sunday Report."
His comments came as Vice President JD Vance met with Iranian officials in Switzerland to continue negotiations following the signing of the memorandum, which establishes a 60-day framework for the sides to work toward a permanent agreement.
Huckabee stressed that the memorandum was only a preliminary step.
"Even today, he has made very strong comments that if the Iranians are not serious about being true to this MOU, which is not a deal, it's an MOU that sets up a potential deal," Huckabee said, referring to President Donald Trump.
"He has made it clear what he will do, and it is not something the Iranians want another piece of," Huckabee added.
Earlier Sunday, Vance told reporters the administration was pursuing a diplomatic path aimed at transforming relations across the Middle East and promoting "peace and prosperity for everyone."
Meanwhile, Trump warned on Truth Social that Iran must immediately rein in its proxies in Lebanon, saying the United States would "hit Iran hard again" if attacks continued.
Cohen reported that Huckabee also told summit attendees that Iran "will never have a nuclear weapon" and would not be allowed to enrich uranium.
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