Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif told lawmakers that the Western countries involved in nuclear negotiations with the country now acknowledge Iran’s rejection of hegemony and commitment to its obligations, IRNA reported Jan. 6. He added that negotiations would result in the return of some of Iran’s frozen assets and that there is no longer talk of shutting down the Fordo and Arak nuclear sites. Iran’s Majlis, or parliament, cast 125 votes in Zarif’s favor following his remarks. The deadline to formalize an agreement on Iran’s nuclear program was extended, and a basic agreement is expected by March 1.