On June 21, 2026, Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina expressed skepticism regarding the U.S.'s diplomatic efforts with Iran during an appearance on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan." He stated, "Let's try a diplomatic solution. I think it's going to fail. What happens next?" His comments come as U.S. negotiators, including Vice President JD Vance, are meeting with Iranian officials in Switzerland, marking the beginning of a 60-day negotiation period following a recent memorandum of understanding between the two nations.
Graham noted that ongoing conflicts between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah could jeopardize the U.S.-Iran ceasefire. He mentioned that Iran has threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz, accusing the U.S. and Israel of violating the agreement. If diplomatic efforts fail, Graham suggested that President Trump might take control of the Strait of Hormuz by force, stating, "The United States will control the Strait of Hormuz, we'll charge a fee for all those who go through to pay for the operation."
He further indicated that if Iran contests U.S. control of the Strait, the U.S. would respond aggressively. Graham also discussed the potential for expanding the Abraham Accords and addressing the Arab-Israeli conflict by 2026. He previously criticized the proposed $300 billion in reconstruction funds for Iran, comparing it to a Marshall Plan for Germany under Nazi rule. However, he acknowledged a shift in his perspective, believing that U.S.-allied Gulf states may provide the funding, which he sees as a positive development, suggesting that it indicates a willingness from Sunni Arab states to engage with Iran.
Graham concluded that while the memorandum of understanding is "problematic," the funds Iran receives will not significantly alter the country's future, stating, "It's not enough to reconstruct the country."