Support of Prominent Iranian Figures for the Nuclear Agreement

A group of prominent Iranian figures, including political, social, and civil activists—some of whom have been imprisoned or pressured in Iran—along with artists, researchers, and journalists, have expressed their support for the nuclear agreement by releasing short videos on YouTube and urging the U.S. Congress to support it as well. Among those featured in the videos are Shirin Ebadi, Nobel Peace Prize laureate; Ghoncheh Ghavami, civil activist; Kayhan Kalhor, musician; Jafar Panahi, filmmaker; Reza Kianian, actor; Nasrin Sotoudeh, lawyer; and many others. Many of these individuals believe that the nuclear agreement represents a way out of sanctions and reduces the risk of a potential war, benefiting not only Iran but also the region and the world, as well as the process of civil, political, and social freedoms. This new campaign follows the activities of supporters of the nuclear agreement. At the end of July, social media reflected gatherings in various cities around the world in support of this agreement. The presence of famous artists alongside supporters of the agreement is not new and even dates back to before the achievement of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action in Vienna. The U.S. Congress, which has a Republican majority, is currently reviewing the nuclear agreement. Republicans have repeatedly expressed their opposition to the agreement. However, if they fail to gather a two-thirds vote against the agreement, a veto from the U.S. President could ultimately lead to its approval. In their video campaign, Iranian figures have called on U.S. Congress representatives to vote in favor of this agreement.