US, Iran face political obstacles to potential nuclear deal, fewer hurdles in other countries

PARIS – A potentially path-breaking nuclear deal could face political trouble in Iran and the United States, but not necessarily elsewhere.

The framework deal struck April 2 between Tehran and six world powers — Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States — sets in motion efforts toward a final accord by this summer. Depending on the final terms, it could require legislative ratification.

The deal faces opposition in U.S. Congress and from hardliners in Iran, but appears to be less contentious in the other key signatory countries. Here's a look at what may await there:

RUSSIA

If Russia signs and ratification is required, President Vladimir Putin's allies in parliament would be all but certain to provide it. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's main man at the Iran talks, said during previous negotiations that he did not think any final agreement would require parliamentary ratification.

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CHINA

Beijing has followed Moscow's lead during more than a decade of nuclear negotiations with Iran. The National People's Congress, China, which is subservient to the Communist leadership, is expected to quickly endorse any final deal if asked to do so.

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BRITAIN

The proposed deal has been broadly welcomed in Britain and is not expected to meet any resistance should a parliamentary vote be required. Foreign Secretary Michael Fallon, a Conservative, said the accord surpassed expectations from even 18 months ago and "could be a very good deal." The opposition Labour Party, which could form the next government after the country's parliamentary election on May 7, has supported the nuclear negotiations and welcomed the agreement.

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FRANCE

President Francois Hollande's Socialist government sought tough conditions in the negotiations, but was ultimately satisfied with the framework deal. The opposition conservative party, the UMP, has welcomed the deal, as have the leading far-left party and the Greens. The French public appears to generally support the government's call for a "robust" deal. The French parliament would not need to vote on the accord.

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GERMANY

Top figures in Germany's broad, left-right coalition government — which controls four-fifths of parliamentary seats — have publicly endorsed the deal. A final accord is not expected to need parliamentary approval in Germany.