U.S. President Donald Trump, who had declared at the start of the Iran invasion that no deal would occur without Tehran’s unconditional surrender, signed an agreement on Wednesday that appeared to contradict his earlier stance. The newly released document allows Iran to access billions of dollars in oil revenue previously frozen by the United States. Observers described the deal as resembling an American concession rather than a victory, while Iran reportedly viewed it as a cause for celebration after months of conflict.

The agreement, referred to as a memorandum of understanding, includes provisions that could enable Iran to strengthen its position over the Strait of Hormuz, contradicting earlier statements by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who had said such control would be unacceptable. Trump justified the release of Iranian funds as a reward for “good behavior,” a move similar to one made by former President Barack Obama, which Trump had long criticized.

Following the deal’s publication, hardliners within Trump’s party voiced objections, and Israeli officials expressed concern that the accord might interfere with their ongoing operations against Hezbollah.