Iran’s Rouhani blasts critics as ‘political cowards’

Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani delivered a broadside on Monday at critics of his efforts to engage with the West and seek a nuclear deal, accusing them of political cowardice and mischief. In a speech broadcast live, Rouhani attacked the hardline factions within Iran’s parliament who have consistently opposed him since he took office a year ago after a surprise electoral victory. ‘Some of them chant slogans but they are political cowards. As soon as we negotiate they start shaking. Go to hell and find somewhere to stay warm,’ he told his opponents.