US President Barack Obama, speaking live, says the deal demonstrates that "American diplomacy can bring about real and meaningful change."
Obama says that today, "because America negotiated from a position of strength and principle, we have stopped the spread of nuclear weapons" in the region.
He said the accord "meets every single one of the bottom lines" of the framework deal.
"Every path to a nuclear weapon is cut off," he said.
Obama says the deal is not built on trust, but on verification by inspectors.
Obama says the IAEA will have access to suspect sites "where necessary, when necessary."
He says sanctions relief will be phased in, that Iran must first complete key steps.
Obama asks lawmakers to consider a world without this deal. "We put sanctions in place to get a diplomatic resolution, and that is what we have done."
"No deal means no lasting constraints on Iran's nuclear program," Obama says.
Obama says "no deal means a greater chance of more war in the Middle East."
Obama: "I believe it would be irresponsible to walk away from this deal."
"I welcome a robust debate in Congress on this issue" and scrutiny of the details," he says.
Obama says he will veto any legislation that prevents enactment of the deal.
OBAMA SAYS IF IRAN VIOLATES THE DEAL, THE SAME OPTIONS AVAILABLE TODAY WILL BE THERE FOR FUTURE U.S. PRESIDENTS
AFP: Iran state TV airs Obama's nuclear deal statement live.