The implementation of the Iranian nuclear deal and five Americans freed by Tehran in a prisoner swap are reasons for optimism, President Obama said Sunday during a rare weekend address, showing the fruits of diplomacy with a still-hostile adversary of the United States.
"This is a good day," the president said.
"Once again, we’re seeing what’s possible with strong American diplomacy."
Four U.S. citizens freed by Iran -- including Washington Post reporter Jason Rezaian -- were released Sunday, according to a senior administration official and their families.
A fifth American, Matthew Trevithick, had already left the country.
“They never gave in and they never gave up,” Obama said of the Americans, some of whom reportedly experienced torture in years-long detentions.