Iran unrest could complicate Trump decision on sanctions waivers
US President Donald Trump has voiced his support for Iran's protests, but the unrest could further complicate his decision on whether to waive nuclear sanctions next month.
WASHINGTON — US President Donald Trump and members of his administration today continued to voice support for peaceful protesters in Iran and warned Iranian authorities not to crack down on the fourth day of demonstrations that have erupted in cities large and small around the country. Trump’s latest expression of support for the Iranian demonstrations came as Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, in his first comments on the protests, made during a Cabinet session and aired on Iranian TV, said he would work with parliament to address economic grievances of the population.
But the signs of Iranian unrest are likely to further complicate White House calculations as Trump decides whether to waive nuclear-related US economic sanctions in mid-January, which the United States is obliged to do if it intends to remain in compliance with the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.
“Big protests in Iran,” Trump tweeted today before heading to play golf at his West Palm Beach golf club. “The people are finally getting wise as to how their money and wealth is being stolen and squandered on terrorism. Looks like they will not take it any longer.”
“The USA is watching very closely for human rights violations!” Trump warned in his tweet.
