US Could Face Greater Challenges After Trump-Led Iran Pact, Obama and Officials Caution

Former president Barack Obama cautioned that America might end up in a weaker position than prior to the conflict with Iran following the new Washington-Tehran agreement, during a Friday NBC News interview.

"We have engaged in conflict, expended vast sums of money, and placed significant pressure on our armed forces," Obama noted to NBC. "It appears we have returned to the starting point before the war began, perhaps even in a slightly more difficult spot."

He expressed relief at the ceasefire and optimism for its continuation. Nevertheless, he faulted the current leadership for advancing Iran's nuclear capabilities through withdrawal from the prior deal established during his term.

"Iran committed to halting nuclear weapon development," Obama stressed. "The administration withdrew from that pact, prompting Iran to expand its nuclear abilities further."

Ex-Energy Secretary Flags Potential Overly Favorable Terms in Accord

Obama joins other past administration figures in questioning the pact, finalized by President Donald Trump in France on Thursday.

Former energy secretary Dan Brouillette, who served from 2019 to 2021 in Trump's initial term, described the deal as overly lenient toward Tehran in a CNN interview on Friday.

Brouillette noted the US restrictions on Iranian oil exports via the Strait of Hormuz proved highly successful in compelling negotiations through economic means.

Yet he observed the terms appear somewhat too accommodating by permitting Iran immediate resumption of oil sales and other upfront benefits.

Such oil exports could yield around 60 billion dollars annually for Iran, per the CNN account.

Need to Monitor Iran's Support for Regional Militant Groups

He voiced worries that Tehran might redirect new revenues toward backing militant proxies opposed to neighboring states and US interests.

"We must watch this closely," Brouillette said. "Should they resume such funding globally, all prior terms would be reconsidered."

Brouillette added that he would have structured the negotiations differently, seeking more concrete actions before lifting sanctions or establishing reconstruction funds.

Even while critiquing aspects of the agreement, he encouraged Iranians to stay positive, noting that rebuilt infrastructure could support long-term economic stability.