The nation stands at a precipice, with rising prices and social pressures threatening stability. Reza Kangari, head of the Foodstuff Bankers Union in Tehran Province, shared alarming details about the rapid increase in food prices. In a statement to the state-run website Entekhab, Kangari noted that just one month into the Iranian year 1403, foodstuff prices have surged by 30%. He attributed these increases to rising production costs that have been accumulating year after year.
The political arena is also buzzing with accusations and stark warnings. Member of Parliament Masoud Pezeshkian criticized President Ebrahim Raisi’s administration for its failure to curb inflation, stabilize the economy, and manage the exchange rates as promised. Speaking to the state news agency ILNA, Pezeshkian expressed concerns about the pressure on Iranian citizens, suggesting that exceeding their endurance could lead to dire consequences.
Echoing Pezeshkian’s sentiments, Mohammad Mohajeri, a member of Khabar Online’s editorial board, accused the government of being more focused on appearances than actual problem-solving. He highlighted the government’s inefficacy in fulfilling its economic and foreign relations promises, underlining the worsening conditions in the gold and currency markets as evidence of this failure.
He emphasized the need for a cabinet reshuffle for President Raisi to maintain his position, lamenting the lack of accountability for the economic downturn. Adding a broader perspective, former president Hassan Rouhani criticized the current ruling factions for their lack of historical legitimacy and revolutionary involvement. In a discussion with the editorial board of Etemad newspaper, Rouhani condemned the power dynamics within these groups, which, according to him, have led to arbitrary decision-making and contributed to the current crisis.
Why does #Khamenei fear his own sham elections? Why sideline allies like Fallahian, Salehi, Taeb and Rouhani? Is it about succession or survival? Explore in an 8-minute video on #IranElections. pic.twitter.com/byvOocmwR8
— NCRI-FAC (@iran_policy) February 13, 2024
As these voices from different sectors converge on the issue of blame and accountability, the Iranian regime faces a crucial test. With economic conditions deteriorating and public dissatisfaction on the rise, the calls for change are becoming louder and more urgent. Iran’s leadership must address these issues promptly to prevent the potential for social unrest from becoming a reality.
MEK Iran (follow us on Twitter and Facebook), Maryam Rajavi’s on her site, Twitter & Facebook, NCRI (Twitter & Facebook), and People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran – MEK IRAN – YouTu