Iran’s Rouhani Warns Hardline Elements Against Obstructing Sanctions Relief

Iran's June presidential elections are approaching, Rouhani is expected to be replaced by someone who is not as patient with the US

Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani delivered a warning to Iranian elements that he says are seeking to obstruct a US return to the nuclear deal, known as the JCPOA.

“It is a great betrayal of the Iranian nation if any faction or person delays the end of the sanctions even for one hour,” Rouhani said in a televised speech. “The small minority that is obstructing this path needs to stop its destructive act.”

The warning comes as Iran’s June presidential elections are approaching. Rouhani is not up for reelection. He is expected to be replaced by a more hardline president who might not be as patient with the US as Rouhani, who negotiated the JCPOA in 2015.

“Today, conditions are better than ever for the lifting of the sanctions,” Rouhani said. He added that the new Biden administration says it wants to return to the deal but said, “Words are not enough. We are waiting for action.”

On Monday, Iran’s Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said the US should act quickly to lift sanctions and return to the JCPOA before the election period, warning a “lame duck” government would slow Tehran’s ability to make policy changes. Earlier this month, US envoy to Iran Robert Malley said the Iranian presidential elections are not a factor for the US.

While much is being made about the possibility of a hardliner replacing Rouhani, even the hardline Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has made it clear that Tehran will quickly return to the limits set by the JCPOA if the US lifts sanctions. So no matter who wins in June, the US will still be able to revive the JCPOA by giving Iran sanctions relief.

Author: Dave DeCamp

Dave DeCamp is the news editor of Antiwar.com, follow him on Twitter @decampdave.