Former National Security Adviser H. R. McMaster has expressed skepticism about the progress of ongoing indirect negotiations between the United States and Iran, arguing that Tehran stands to benefit more than Washington from the current diplomatic process.
Speaking on CBS News’ The Takeout with Major Garrett, McMaster said Iran has been the primary beneficiary of the negotiations because of measures that could provide the country with significant financial relief.
“Iran is the one making the progress in these negotiations because they’re receiving big paychecks,” McMaster said.
He pointed to the easing of U.S. sanctions on Iranian oil exports and proposals to unfreeze Iranian assets, arguing that the additional revenue could allow Tehran to rebuild its military capabilities and provide renewed support to allied groups across the Middle East.
“They’re getting the infusion of cash they desperately needed to get themselves up off the mat,” McMaster said.
The former national security adviser also reiterated his belief that President Donald Trump was justified in initially authorizing military action against Iran.
Earlier on Wednesday, Trump dismissed reports suggesting he had considered resuming military operations, saying he believed negotiations had made significant progress.
“I think they’ve come a long way,” the president told reporters, expressing confidence that Iran would comply with the terms of the 60-day memorandum of understanding reached between the two countries.
McMaster, however, challenged that assessment.
“The Iranians have come a long way because they’re getting everything that they wanted,” he said.
The U.S.-Iran talks are aimed at building on the interim agreement signed earlier this month, with negotiators seeking to reach a broader accord covering Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions relief and regional security.
While the Trump administration has described the negotiations as a step toward lasting stability, critics such as McMaster argue that easing economic pressure too quickly could undermine U.S. leverage and strengthen Iran’s long-term strategic position.
Negotiations between the two sides are expected to continue in the coming weeks as officials work toward a comprehensive agreement before the 60-day deadline expires.
