US mulls stricter Iran sanctions as Rouhani takes over
76 senators have written President Barack Obama demanding tougher punishment on Iran's economy.
TEHRAN, Iran (AP) - Iran s supreme leader has formally endorsed Hasan Rouhani as president, opening the way for the moderate cleric to take over from outgoing President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.
In a ceremony broadcast live on state television Saturday, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei gave his official approval for Rouhani.
Khamenei, the ultimate authority in Iran, has final say in all key matters, including Rouhani s upcoming selections for key Cabinet posts such as the foreign and intelligence ministers.
Rouhani will take the oath of office in parliament Sunday.
Rouhani won a landslide victory in June 14 presidential elections. He has pledged to follow a "path of moderation" and promised greater openness over the country s nuclear program, which has placed it at odds with the West. He replaces Ahmadinejad, first elected in 2005.
Meanwhile, as Iran s new president takes over, fresh US penalties against the country appear to be a done deal.
Seventy-six senators have written President Barack Obama demanding tougher punishment on Iran s economy until the Islamic republic scales back its nuclear program. It also urges Obama to consider military options while keeping the door open to diplomacy.
The Senate letter comes days after the House overwhelmingly passed new restrictions on Iran s oil sector and its mining and construction industries. Senators are expected to take up the same sanctions package in September.
The Obama administration is concerned Congress effort could undercut Iran s relative moderate President-elect Hasan Rouhani, who takes office Sunday.
The U.S. believes Iran is trying to develop nuclear weapons. Iran insists its program is for peaceful energy and research.
