Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that sanctions and the US naval blockade have led to a nearly 35 percent decline in exports and imports. This acknowledgment of the economic toll comes as Iran faces six months of conflict with the United States. On Saturday, Pezeshkian emphasized that foreign trade has been significantly affected by these sanctions and the blockade of Iranian ports.
The Iranian government has indicated that addressing the economic fallout is now a primary focus, which includes efforts to curb inflation, create jobs, and reduce dependence on the US dollar. Pezeshkian noted that Iran managed to sell approximately 90 million barrels of oil during a brief period of permitted sales under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Washington in June.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, who has not appeared publicly since the onset of the conflict on February 28, called for the government to address economic challenges, including inflation and unemployment. Annual inflation reached 66 percent last month, with residents in Tehran reporting significant changes in their daily lives due to the war.
Maryam, a resident, stated that she had to find work to support her household as costs have risen. Omid, who operates a food business, expressed concerns about rising rents and declining trade.
The Iranian government has framed diplomacy and defense as interconnected strategies for safeguarding national interests. Pezeshkian has advocated for dialogue and a cooperative approach with neighboring countries, while Khamenei has called for domestic unity.
Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani met with Iranian leaders in Tehran, highlighting the necessity of resuming open shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the discussions as “creative.”
In a show of military strength, Army Commander-in-Chief Amir Hatami stated that Iran's drone and missile capabilities remain intact despite attempts by adversaries to undermine them. Acting Defence Minister Majid Ibn Reza mentioned that Iran has “surprises” planned for its enemies, as reported by the Tasnim News Agency.