Rouhani dismisses Congress pressure over nuke deal
Iran's president seeking 'dignified' agreement with P5+1 world powers, not US lawmakers; again demands all sanctions be lifted
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani dismissed pressure from the US Congress over a preliminary deal on Iran’s nuclear program, saying that Tehran is dealing with world powers — not American lawmakers.
Rouhani spoke Wednesday in the northern city of Rasht, saying that Iran is pursuing a “dignified” agreement with the six-member group — the US, Russia, China, Britain, France and Germany.
The speech came after US President Barack Obama bowed to pressure from Republicans and Democrats and agreed to sign compromise legislation giving Congress the right to reject a nuclear deal with Iran.
Tehran and world powers reached a framework agreement earlier this month to curb Iran’s nuclear program in return for lifting sanctions. The deal is to be finalized by June 30.
“If there is no end to sanctions, there will not be an agreement,” Rouhani said, repeating the Iranian demand for an end to sanctions the day the deal is signed — a demand rejected by the US.
“The end of these negotiations and a signed deal must include a declaration of canceling the oppressive sanctions on the great nation of Iran,” he said.