[78909] Welfare Policy in Iran: Minister of Labor Updates on Food Allowances and Relaxation of Unemployment Insurance Conditions

Welfare and Employment Policy Updates in Iran

Iranian Minister of Labor and Social Welfare, Ahmad Meydari, issued statements today regarding government support policy. According to reports in خبرفوری ࡆ اخبارفوری مذاקרה ࡆ جنگ فوری, the Minister confirmed that the distribution of food vouchers (Kala-barg) for the month of June will continue "as it was in previous months." At the same time, Meydari noted on Iran International — a satellite channel known for its critical stance toward the Iranian regime — that the government is seeking new budgetary sources to expand aid, but as of now, no additional resources are available.

Regarding cooperation with the private sector, official and local media outlets such as خبر فوری جنگ ایران and SNN.ir reported that within the framework of negotiations with food producers, agreements were reached on discounts of approximately 10% on dairy products and 3% on vegetable oil for program beneficiaries. آخرین خبر emphasized that a final decision on increasing aid amounts has not yet been reached and is under review with the Planning and Budget Organization.

In addition, a significant step was taken in the field of employment: Minister Meydari announced that due to "wartime conditions," the requirement to present a military service completion card as a condition for receiving unemployment benefits has been canceled. This report was confirmed by خراسان آنلاین, which noted that this is a move intended to assist citizens during a period of economic uncertainty and internal government disagreements regarding the distribution of the economic burden.