Iran’s Ayatollah Khamenei Stops Short of Endorsing Nuclear Deal

TEHRAN, Iran (AP) — Iran’s top leader has stopped short of giving his endorsement to the framework nuclear deal struck last week between Teheran and world powers, saying he will wait till it is finalized.

In what appears to be a bargaining tactic, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei says in remarks published Thursday on his official website that he “is neither for nor against” the deal, which is to be finalized by June 30.

Khamenei, who has final say on all state matters, says there “is no binding” agreement yet.

The tentative agreement reached in Switzerland, is meant to curb Iran’s bomb-capable technology while giving Tehran quick access to bank accounts, oil markets and financial assets blocked by international sanctions.