Trump: Iran is not living up to spirit of nuclear deal

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US President Donald Trump criticized Iran on Thursday for allegedly not fulfilling its obligations under the 2015 nuclear deal reached with world powers, including the US and China, branding it again as a "horrible agreement".

"I don’t think they’re living up to the spirit of the agreement,” Trump told reporters at his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey, where he is currently spending his first extended vacation.

US President Donald Trump prepares for a media availability with staff and officials before speaking to reporters after a security briefing at Trump's golf estate in Bedminster, New Jersey US August 10, 2017. /Reuters Photo

"They are not in compliance with the agreement and they certainly are not in the spirit of the agreement in compliance, and I think you’ll see some very strong things taking place if they don’t get themselves in compliance,” he added.

The accord reached under former president Barack Obama gave Iran relief from massive international sanctions in exchange for curbing its ability to make materials for nuclear weapons.

On the campaign trail, Trump repeatedly criticized the deal, promising to renegotiate its terms.

Iranian FM Mohammad Zarif (R) speaks to the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres (L) on the nuclear deal on July 17, 2017 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. /AFP Photo

After coming into office, Trump accused Tehran of supporting extremist groups in the Middle East and imposed new sanctions on the country, the latest of which were passed last month.

Washington said the punitive measures target Tehran's missile program and human rights violations, which were not included in the nuclear deal. Iran, however, rejected the sanctions, noting that they are in violation of the accord.

Despite Trump's objection to the deal and his accusations to Tehran for allegedly failing to act in accordance with the agreement, the US Department of State has confirmed twice since Trump came to office that Iran was in fact complying with the terms of the 2015 deal.