Middle East

Mixed reactions to Iran's nuclear deal

Israeli prime minister delivers harsh criticism, calling deal a 'historic mistake' that makes world more dangerous

Last updated: 24 Nov 2013 12:15
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Hassan Rouhani, Iranian President
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani [Reuters]

Iran's President, Hassan Rouhani, welcomed the agreement, saying his country has finally won the respect it deserves.

"The acknowledgement by world powers concerning this right and the elimination of obstacles in the face of the Iranian nation is of great value."

"This right has been explicitly stipulated by this agreement, stressing that Iran will go on with its enrichment programme.

Iran's enrichment activities will proceed similar to the past."


Barack Obama, US President
US President Barack Obama [Reuters]

US President Barack Obama called the deal "an important first step" towards a comprehensive solution on Iran's nuclear programme.

"My strong preference is to resolve this issue peacefully, and we've extended the hand of diplomacy... Today, that diplomacy opened up a new path towards a world that is more secure," Obama said.

The substantial limitations placed on the programme "cut off Iran's most likely paths to a bomb," Obama said, adding despite legitimate skepticism over Iran's intentions, it was important not to "rush towards conflict."

Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli Prime Minister
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu [AFP]

Israel's prime minister harshly condemned the nuclear deal, calling it a "historic mistake."

Speaking to his Cabinet, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated a long-standing threat to use military action against Iran if needed.

Netanyahu said the deal gave Iran much-needed relief from sanctions but left most of its nuclear infrastructure intact.



Nouri al-Maliki, Iraqi Prime Minister
Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki [EPA]

The prime minister of Iraq was quick to praise the agreement.

"The reaching of a deal between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the six international powers is seen as a major step for the region's security and stability levels," Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki said in a statement.


Laurent Fabius, French Foreign Minister
French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius [EPA]

French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius said the nuclear deal is an important step to preserving "peace and security," but will need to be monitored closely.

He said the deal only confirmed Iran's right to civil nuclear power.






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