WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama says he's surprised that Russia's suspension of missile sales to Iran "held this long."
The WhiteHOUSE objected earlier this week when Russia announced it would lift a five-year ban on delivery of anti-aircraft missiles. They would give the Islamic republic's military a strong deterrent against any air attack.
Moscow says a preliminary agreement over Iran's nuclear program made a 2010 ban on sending missiles to Iran no longer necessary.
Obama also says he'll sign legislation expected to pass the Senate and House giving Congress a say on a final deal. He called it a "reasonable compromise."
The legislation would block Obama from waiving congressional sanctions against Iran for at least 30 days after any final agreement. That would give lawmakers time to weigh in.