[44761] Escalation in public protest in Iran: Extreme cost of living and criticism of government policy

Internal tension and economic crisis in Iran: Reports from the field

In the shadow of the ongoing tense situation in Iran, users reporting to Iran International, a network identified with the opposition and a harsh critic of the Islamic Republic regime, describe a daily reality of "poverty and distress." According to these reports, citizens are suffering from galloping inflation, with one report from Ahvaz claiming that "one egg costs 20,000 Tomans" and that basic products have become a luxury. Many citizens are protesting against internet blockages and what they call "class-based internet," while calling on the international community and US President Donald Trump to act more firmly against the regime.

On the streets of Iran, residents report an increased presence of security forces and regime loyalists, who hold public events accompanied by refreshments and free transportation, a practice perceived by critics of the regime as a desperate attempt to maintain artificial support. Citizens report increased movement of military vehicles, including missile launchers, in cities such as Tabriz and Tehran, and severe traffic disruptions due to the deployment of forces at strategic locations.

Conversely, IRNA News Agency, the state news agency serving as the mouthpiece of the Iranian administration, focuses on the diplomatic and security arena. Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani emphasized that "any attempt to impose a blockade or maritime restrictions is doomed to failure." In an official speech attributed to the President of Iran, the government clarified that the Persian Gulf is a "vital market for trade and energy" and that its security depends on regional cooperation, while blaming external actors for attempting to exert economic pressure on Iran through a "naval blockade."

The Iranian public reporting to Iran International remains divided in their opinions regarding the future of the country, but a sense of urgency and despair is evident. While some respondents express hope for change through the opposition leadership headed by Reza Pahlavi, others express deep disappointment with the international community, and in particular with the American administration, which they claim did not keep its promises for relief from the economic blockade.