Iran's state radio reports that President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is backtracking on his plan to cut energy and food subsidies.
Parliament had blasted the plan to cut the subsidies in a country that already is dealing with fuel rationing and skyrocketing prices. It was rare criticism from the conservative-dominated Parliament.
In comments broadcast Tuesday, Ahmadinejad said: "We will take back the bill."
Iran's president portrayed himself as a champion of the poor when he swept to power in 2005, promising to use the country's oil wealth to eradicate poverty.
Ahmadinejad has faced massive opposition since the June 12 presidential election, which opponents said was stolen through vote fraud. Dozens were killed in the government-led crackdown.
