The new Iran memorandum is raising old questions about war powers, diplomacy, and congressional oversight. This week, Elisa is joined by Brian Egan, current partner at Skadden and former State Department Legal Adviser and Deputy White House Counsel, to examine the Trump administration’s 14-point memorandum of understanding with Iran and how it compares to the JCPOA. Together, they break down what legal force an MOU may carry, what it could mean for sanctions, inspections, frozen funds, and regional security, and why the Algiers Accords still matter when assessing major international agreements.

Brian J. Egan is a partner in Skadden’s National Security Group, where he leads the firm’s CFIUS, export controls, and sanctions practices.

References:

• Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding Between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America. NPR, 18 June 2026
• The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)
• The Algiers Accords