Trump told Iranian protesters ‘help is on its way’, but the peace deal leaves the mullahs more powerful than ever, dissidents say

Article excerpt

Iranian dissidents are expressing frustration and anger over a Trump administration peace deal with Tehran that they say leaves the Islamic Republic's leadership stronger than before. The dissidents point to Trump's previous statements to Iranian protesters that "help is on its way," contrasting those promises with what they view as a capitulation to the regime. Details of the agreement emerging now show concessions that critics argue embolden rather than constrain the mullahs' power. For opposition figures who have risked their lives challenging Iran's government, the deal represents an abandonment of their cause and a betrayal of earlier assurances.