A nuclear agreement between Iran and world powers is good news for the region and the entire world. As US President Barack Obama stated: “It’s a matter of peace and war.” Obviously, reaching an agreement made the world a safer place and prevented the possibility of another conflict in the Middle East.

Iranian negotiators were under pressure from hardliners in their country not to cross the red line, while similarly, American delegates had to convince allies and critics at home that this was the best option. For both sides, it was a difficult and historical task.

Iran’s nuclear deal is obviously one of the greatest achievements for America’s foreign policy and a victory for reformists in Iran. In 35 years, this is first time that Iran has shown seemingly genuine enthusiasm to engage with the world and solve its problems with them. Certainly, solving the issue of a nuclear program is the first important step.

It is good news for the region, because it prevents another disastrous conflict in this volatile part of the world. As Iranian officials stated many times, in case of any attack at their nuclear facilities, they would respond with an ‘iron fist’. So, any attack could have unpredictable consequences and could be the beginning of another devastating war.

However, Iran’s neighbours are worried that the agreement would increase the interference of Iran in Arab countries like Lebanon, Syria and Iraq, and cause them to support its proxies. As the foreign minister of France stated, this opportunity could be a test for Iran.

After Iranian President Hassan Rouhani won federal elections, as a relatively moderate reformist, there seemed to be some hope of resolving any issues with Gulf countries and other neighbours. But, after Al Houthis overthrew the internationally recognised government in Yemen, Iran was further ostracised in the region. The international community was once again reminded of Iran’s policies.

Sincere effort and a fundamental change in foreign policy is needed from Iran to ensure its neighbours that its policy of ‘exporting revolution’ is not what the country wants anymore.

- The reader is an executive assistant at a shipping company based in Dubai.