Rouhani: Only Zionists, warmongers, US extremists oppose sanctions lifting

Iran emerged from years of economic isolation on Saturday when world powers lifted sanctions after confirming that Tehran had curbed its nuclear program as part of last year's deal.

By JPOST.COM STAFF, REUTERS
Updated: JANUARY 17, 2016 14:56
Rouhani hails "golden page" in Iran history as sanctions lifted
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Sunday hailed the nuclear deal with world powers implemented late the previous evening, as a "golden page" in the country's history, looked forward to an economic future less dependent on oil, and stressed that Israel was among the few actors on the world stage to oppose the development.
In an address to parliament Sunday morning, he said all the parties involved are satisfied with the deal "with the exception of Zionists and warmongers ... American hardliners and extremists," CNN quoted him as saying. 
The Islamic Republic emerged from years of economic isolation on Saturday when world powers lifted crippling sanctions after confirming that Tehran had curbed its nuclear program as part of a deal agreed last year.
"The nuclear deal is an opportunity that we should use to develop the country, improve the welfare of the nation, and create stability and security in the region," Rouhani told the legislature as he presented a draft budget for the next fiscal year. 
Tehran also announced the release of five Americans including Washington Post reporter Jason Rezaian as part of a prisoner swap with the United States, to reduce decades-old hostility.
As tens of billions of dollars worth of Iranian assets were due to be unfrozen and barriers to international business come down, Rouhani said the deal was a "turning point" for the economy of 80 million people.
He said the deal was an opportunity for Iran's economy to cut its "umbilical cord" to oil while prices were low. Benchmark Brent crude closed below $29 on Friday, and may fall further as Iran has pledged to raise its supply after sanctions were lifted.