Iran: President Rouhani's popularity 'soaring'

More than 80 percent of Iranians view President Hassan Rouhani in a favourable way, with many showing strong support in the aftermath of the nuclear agreement, according to a survey by IranPoll.com.

The report, conducted for the University of Maryland, shows that three in four Iranians support the nuclear agreement and 89 percent view Rouhani in a favourable way.

In addition to this, 60 percent want the president's allies and supporters to win control of parliament in February elections.

However, much of this support is based on misperceptions about Iran's commitments under the agreement and "unrealistic expectations about its likely economic benefits", reports the UK’s The Guardian. 

For example, a majority, 56 percent, incorrectly believe Iran has not agreed to limit its nuclear research and development activities, while 61 percent incorrectly believe there are no conditions under which the International Atomic Energy Agency is permitted to inspect Iranian military sites.

A total of 59 percent also believe that all US sanctions will be lifted, even if they do not relate to the nuclear programme.

This, however, could put Rouhani in a vulnerable position when Iranians become more informed about the deal, writes The Guardian.

Larijani pushes for agreement

Iran's parliament speaker on Sunday urged lawmakers to decide on a landmark agreement reached with world powers.

The official IRNA news agency quoted Ali Larijani as telling members of parliament that "the more it is delayed, it harms us." 

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has final say on all state matters, has said it is up to legislators to approve or reject the deal. It's not clear whether parliament will hold an up-or-down vote on the agreement, or whether a majority of lawmakers support the deal.   

Larijani said Iran had expected Washington take longer to approve the deal given opposition to it in the Republican-led Congress. However, US President Barack Obama won enough Democratic support to prevent Congress from derailing the agreement or forcing him to use his veto.  

Iran's parliament is expected to enter final discussions on the agreement next week.  

A special parliamentary committee that is in charge of reviewing the deal has urged the government to stand firm in its refusal to allow inspectors to visit military sites or interview nuclear scientists.