U.S. President Barack Obama has said a constructive relationship with Iran is possible because of the agreement reached to curb Tehran's nuclear program.
But he doesn't think such a relationship will take shape immediately.
In a CNN interview to be aired later on August 9, Obama said the "nuclear problem" must be dealt with first.
He said the agreement between Iran and world powers to lift economic santions on Tehran in exchange for restrictions on the country's nuclear program achieves that goal "better than any alternative."
Republican lawmakers, however, are largely united against the agreement, as are some of Obama's own Democrats.
Obama says the Iranian nuclear issue makes it possible to open broader discussions with Iran on other issues. He named Syria as an example.
