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