President Masoud Pezeshkian Acknowledges Iran's Economic Hardship Amidst Tightening U.S. Sanctions
President Masoud Pezeshkian has acknowledged the severe economic challenges facing Iran, noting that trade has plunged by 25% to 35% while inflation remains rampant. The administration announced an "Economic D-Day" to sever economic lifelines for the Iranian regime and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. In response to these pressures, Pezeshkian emphasized the importance of national cohesion to neutralize discord. While the government plans to double the price of one of three petrol quotas for private vehicles, Pezeshkian warned that further price hikes could lead to further unrest. The economic decline is exacerbated by a naval blockade and military strikes on industrial hubs, which have caused raw material costs to multiply. Domestic manufacturers are struggling as the price of steel and petrochemical feedstocks has risen significantly. Despite these hardships, the administration remains committed to maintaining pressure through sanctions and military presence. Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has also issued a statement urging officials to avoid actions that harm social cohesion, as the government prepares to manage the chain of economic and livelihood challenges.
Sources
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Even Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is worried about Iran’s economy and 'social cohesion'
Fortune
Paywall and unreadable sources
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Time Is No Longer on Iran’s Side in the Battle of the Blockades
WSJ
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US blockade strangling Iran's oil exports as offshore stockpiles dwindle -- Wall Street Journal
The Times of Israel
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Iran's Hormuz leverage wanes as US economic squeeze bites
Reuters
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Iran's Oil Dollars Are Drying Up-and Plunging It Deeper Into Crisis
Moomoo