On Persian new year, Obama vows steps to breach Iranian "electronic curtain"

President Barack Obama accused Iran on Tuesday of imposing an "electronic curtain" to stop the free flow of ideas and information into the Islamic republic and promised a new U.S. push to ease the Iranian people's access to the Internet.   

"My administration is issuing new guidelines to make it easier for American businesses to provide software and services into Iran that will make it easier for the Iranian people to use the Internet," Obama said in a video message to the Iranian people in a message marking the Persian new year, known as Nowruz.

Obama is told the Iranian people that there is no reason for the United States and Iran to be divided.

The U.S. president said he wants Iranians to know that "America seeks a dialogue to hear your views and understand your aspirations."
     
Obama's remarks come amid heightened tensions over Iran's disputed nuclear program. The president says if the Iranian government pursues a responsible path, it will be welcomed back into the international community.
 
Iran maintains that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes and says it does not seek a bomb.
 
Reuters/AP