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#Economy #International Affairs
Al Jazeera
Al Jazeera
6h ago 2 views

Political infighting as Iran navigates sanctions, lingering threat of war

Iran has reinstated sanctions following failed negotiations with European powers, exacerbating economic struggles and political infighting. This situation matters as it highlights the regime's defiance and the potential for increased unrest among the populace.
Political infighting as Iran navigates sanctions, lingering threat of war
A What happened
In October 2025, Iran faced the reimposition of UN sanctions by European powers, a consequence of failed negotiations regarding its nuclear program. The sanctions are intensifying an already struggling economy, with inflation surpassing 40% and the local currency nearing historic lows against the US dollar. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei has adopted a defiant stance against the US, asserting that Iran will not yield to external pressures. Amidst this backdrop, the Iranian government is attempting to bolster nationalist sentiment to distract from economic hardships and political infighting. Public frustration is mounting due to rising prices and restrictions on freedoms, including internet access. The government is also dealing with internal conflicts over issues like the mandatory hijab, which has sparked protests in the past. High-profile political figures are under scrutiny as the nation navigates these turbulent waters, with accusations of corruption and mismanagement surfacing in the media.

Key insights

  • 1

    Economic Strain

    Iran's economy is suffering from over 40% inflation and a declining currency.

  • 2

    Political Infighting

    Internal conflicts among Iranian leaders are intensifying amid external pressures.

  • 3

    Nationalist Sentiment

    The government is promoting nationalism to rally public support against sanctions.

Takeaways

Iran's reinstated sanctions and the resulting economic turmoil are likely to exacerbate internal tensions and public dissatisfaction, potentially leading to further unrest. The government's defiance and nationalist rhetoric may not be sufficient to quell the mounting frustrations of the populace.