US-Iran Deal Signed: 60-Day Countdown Begins Amid Israeli Alarm

Trump signs MoU with Iran; Hezbollah expects a cash injection as Israel fears a lifeline to its enemy.

US-Iran Deal Signed: 60-Day Countdown Begins Amid Israeli Alarm — President Donald Trump signed a memorandum of understanding with Iran on Thursday, setting a 60-day countdown for negotiations on a final agreement, after which he warned: 'If no agreement with Iran is reached within 60 days, the US will resume bombings.'[^1] The deal, whose full text was leaked by Israeli media, reportedly allows Iran to keep enriched uranium inside the country for dilution, rather than shipping it abroad—a major concession that Israeli officials fear amounts to Iran 'buying time' without intending to follow through.[^2][^3] The implications for Israel are stark. Hezbollah's media office declared that Iran will continue to support Lebanon 'regardless of the details of receiving its funds back,' while a US official insisted that 'funds will not be released if they are intended for any terrorist organization.'[^4] Yet reports indicate that Iran transferred $1 billion to Hezbollah in the first ten months of 2025, and the group expects a major cash injection once the deal is sealed.[^5] Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem called the deal a 'great victory' that can be used to expel Israel from Lebanon.[^6] Israeli officials are openly worried. Maariv reported that 'we came out as the losers in the confrontation,' while a White House official stated that 'Israel was updated, we assume Iran is lying.'[^7] Trump himself reportedly criticized Netanyahu, calling him a 'little partner' and claiming the memorandum was sent to Israel. The deal also includes a potential joint investment fund with Qatar worth up to $300 billion, and Trump said the US Army will remain in the Persian Gulf for some time. Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei added ominously: 'Our missiles don't like it at all when anyone talks about them.' Haredi Protest, Prison Service Scandal, and Legal Clashes — This morning, Haredi protesters blocked Highway 4 at the entrance to Bnei Brak, prompting a police response that included documented violence by Deputy Superintendent Yuval Shavit, who was filmed tearing a protester's pants and dragging him on the road.[^1] Police announced this evening they will independently