HASSAN ROUHANI

Iran’s president proposes a referendum to heal political divisions after last month’s protests over economic grievances spread to 80 cities

1 Speaking at an event to mark the 39th anniversary of the 1979 Islamic revolution, Rouhani said: “Today, we need everyone, including principlists, reformists, moderates...if we disagree on some issues, we should refer to Article 59,” He was referring to the Constitutional article on holding referendums

2 His speech was largely aimed at his domestic audience, but he also talked about regional issues without directly addressing the confrontation between the Syrian army and Iranian-backed forces

3 On the 2015 nuclear deal, which is under threat from US President Donald Trump, Rouhani said: “Today, I declare that our nation is committed to its pledges until the day that the other side does so.”