Obama hints at more time

US President Barack Obama signaled Wednesday that talks with Iran on its nuclear program may need to extend beyond a weekend deadline, saying negotiations have shown a "credible way forward."
Obama said he was consulting with Congress -- where there is strong criticism of his quest for a diplomatic deal with Iran -- as negotiators meet in Vienna ahead of Sunday's expiration of a temporary deal.
"It's clear to me that we have made real progress in several areas and that we have a credible way forward." Obama told reporters.
"So over the next few days, we'll continue consulting with Congress and our team will continue discussions with Iran and our partners as we determine whether additional time is necessary to extend our negotiations."
Iran has "met its commitments" under the interim agreement, including halting progress of its nuclear program and allowing more inspections, Obama said.
White House spokesman Josh Earnest earlier appeared to prepare the political ground for an extension of talks.
"It is clear that their track record over the last six months, I think many people would acknowledge, has been surprisingly favorable," Earnest said.