Near-final US deal blocked by hardliners in 2021, ex-president says
Former Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that a near-final agreement with the United States was within reach in the spring of 2021, but was ultimately derailed by hardliners’ opposition seeking to undermine his administration.
Rouhani said that his former negotiating team, led by Abbas Araghchi, had secured a favorable agreement that would have lifted not only pre-existing sanctions but also those imposed by the Trump administration.
"At that time, I said in the government that if they allow us, we will finish it today. Only one signature remained for Mr. Araghchi to complete," Rouhani said, accusing domestic opponents of blocking the deal to ensure his administration's failure.
Rouhani also addressed the internal debate surrounding negotiations with the West, criticizing those who advocate for confrontation and disengagement from international organizations.
