Strict sanctions on Iran-sanctions that primarily target Iran's key energy sector and its access to the international financial system-harmed Iran's economy to the point where Iran's leaders, on November 24, 2013, accepted an interim agreement ("Joint Plan of Action," JPA) that halts expansion of Iran's nuclear program in exchange for temporary and modest sanctions relief. The June 14, 2013, election of the relatively moderate Hassan Rouhani as Iran's president was an indication of the growing public pressure on the regime to achieve an easing of sanctions.