Iran’s President said on Wednesday that the world needs its help to stabilise a troubled Middle East, in remarks pointing to the wider ramifications of a deal over its disputed nuclear programme. In a live televised speech marking the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic revolution, Hassan Rouhani implicitly linked ongoing nuclear talks with world powers to resolving bloody conflicts in Iraq and Syria.
Significant gaps remain between Iran and the United States and other leading nations on specific measures to end a 12-year standoff on the nuclear issue, but both sides are pushing for a deal. And although Iranian and US officials have said the turmoil gripping the Middle East falls outside the remit of negotiations, analysts say both Governments acknowledge an agreement could have a broader impact.