Retired U.S. General Jack Keane has said Iran was prepared to abandon a recently signed memorandum of understanding with the United States because it conflicted with the country’s long-term strategic objectives.
Speaking on Fox News in an interview aired on Saturday, July 18, 2026, Keane said Iran views the Strait of Hormuz as a vital strategic asset and has pursued influence over the waterway for decades.
“The regime is dead set on the Strait of Hormuz, and that is why they were willing to blow up, literally and figuratively, the memorandum of understanding over the Strait of Hormuz, despite the fact that we just signed it a couple of weeks ago,” Keane said.
He added that understanding Iran’s long-term strategic goals helps explain its actions despite recent diplomatic agreements.
Keane also said current U.S. military operations are focused on degrading Iran’s ability to disrupt shipping by targeting drones, missiles and radar systems, while also limiting its capacity to launch retaliatory ballistic missile attacks. He noted that the operation could last about a week, depending on developments, adding that the U.S. administration aims to bring the conflict to a decisive conclusion.
