Many Iranians celebrated publicly and privately the announcement of a preliminary agreement in Lausanne that could lead to a permanent nuclear deal that would curb Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief.
Sanctions imposed on Iran have made life more difficult for ordinary Iranians who are hoping that a permanent nuclear deal will lead to a better economy, more work opportunities, and better ties with the world.
Amateur videos posted online and images by citizens and news agencies showed people honking and celebrating late into the night in Tehran.
Some celebrated at home.
Iranian journalists wrote on Twitter that in an unprecedented move, the state-controlled television had aired a live address by U.S. President Barack Obama on the announcement in Lausanne.
Several internet savvy Iranians decided to mark the occasion with selfies with Obama.
Amid the celebrations a young man in Tehran sounded cautious.
"I will be happy when there will be a deal. Nothing is certain at this point. I'm a bit concerned [Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali] Khamenei and his [hard-line] could somehow spoil this."
A mother of two, also in in the Iranian capital, told RFE/RL that a potential agreement between Iran and major world powers will not solve all of the country’s problems.
But she said it would lead to a better economic situation for many of those who are struggling to make ends meet.
“I have a good feeling about this. It gives me hope in the future," she said.
-- Golnaz Esfandiari
