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Trump Strikes Blow against Iran 2015 Nuclear Deal

Trump Strikes Blow against Iran 2015 Nuclear Deal

Friday, 13 October, 2017 - 17:30
US President Donald Trump speaks about the Iran nuclear deal in the Diplomatic Room of the White House in Washington, US, October 13, 2017. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque

Washington- US President Donald Trump struck a blow against the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement on Friday, choosing not to certify that Tehran is complying with the deal in a major reversal of US policy.


"Based on the factual record I have put forward, I am announcing today that we cannot and will not make this certification," Trump said at a White House event as he unveiled a tougher strategy against Tehran.


Trump made the announcement in a speech that detailed a more confrontational approach to Iran over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs and its support for extremist groups in the Middle East.


"Today I am announcing our strategy along with several major steps we're taking to confront the Iranian regime's hostile actions and to ensure that Iran never -- and I mean never -- acquires a nuclear weapon," Trump said.


While Trump did not pull the United States out of the agreement, aimed at preventing Iran from developing a nuclear bomb, he gave the US Congress 60 days to decide whether to reimpose economic sanctions on Tehran that were lifted under the pact.


On the other hand, #US House Speaker Ryan says supports Trump's decision to re-evaluate Iran Nuclear Deal, will work with administration to counter "Iran’s range of destabilizing activities."


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