The preliminary framework deal aimed at curbing Iran’s nuclear program announced Thursday was greeted with caution, criticism and congratulations. Here’s some reaction from around the world.
President Barack Obama: The deal made the world safer and “cut off every pathway” to an Iranian nuclear weapon, the president said.
“If Iran cheats, the world will know it,” he said. “If we see something suspicious, we will inspect it.”
The agreement was also vastly better than bombing Iranian nuclear facilities and starting another war in the Middle East, Obama added.
RELATED: Kerry: Foundation for ‘good deal’ with Iran
Iranians: Celebrations erupted on the streets of Tehran after the deal was announced, as Iranians saw an possible end to crushing economic sanctions.
“I think this deal will be good for our business and for our customers, we will be able to import a more diverse range of goods and sell them at a better price,” said Reza, 36, the general manager of grocery store in an affluent part of the capital. “Our customers often complain that goods are not diverse and very expensive. God willing, now we will be able to offer many more good at better prices”
Sana, a 41-year-old customer shopping with her 6-year-old son, said she hoped an end to sanctions would mean it was easier to buy basics but remained cautious.
“I hope this and many other things will change in my country once the sanctions have gone, but you never know,” she said.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: “A deal based on this framework would threaten the survival of Israel,” said Netanyahu, who has often spoken out against the agreement. “Such a deal would not block Iran’s path to the bomb. It would pave it,” he warned in a statement after speaking to Obama by telephone.
RELATED: Netanyahu spokesman says deal as a whole a problem
The U.S. and other countries should instead ratchet up the pressure on Iran until a better deal is reached, he said.
Saudi Arabia’s King Salman: Iran’s regional rival and close U.S. ally reacted cautiously.
“The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques expressed his hope that reaching a final binding deal would strengthen the stability and security of the region and the world,” Saudi Press Agency reported, using Salman’s official title.








