War and sanctions deepen Iran's fuel crisis
Long lines at fuel stations are spreading across Iran as war damage, import constraints and new US sanctions squeeze supplies.
With the recent implementation of new economic sanctions, Iran's fuel crisis has intensified. Long queues for gasoline have become common in cities throughout the country, with some individuals waiting for hours or even sleeping in their cars to secure fuel for the following day. Diesel shortages are particularly pronounced, with truck drivers reporting lines stretching for kilometers near major cities.
Iran currently faces a daily gasoline deficit of approximately 15 million liters, which has been exacerbated by war damage, difficulties in importing refined products, and a tightening US embargo. In Karaj, a city west of Tehran, residents report that some filling stations are now limiting individual purchases to around 5 liters.
Truck drivers express concern over losing income due to the waiting periods, often sleeping at stations while awaiting fuel deliveries. The government's use of methanol in domestically produced gasoline has raised suspicions of quality deterioration, although no independent evidence has been provided. There has been at least one confirmed case of water contamination in Rafsanjan, which officials attribute to a technical fault.
As trust between consumers and authorities diminishes, some motorists express reluctance to publicly protest the situation. A recent incident in Tehran involved several cars allegedly damaged after refueling, further deepening public distrust. While the government argues that subsidized gasoline encourages excessive consumption and smuggling, consumers point to inadequate public transport, low incomes, and inflation as contributing factors.
Economists believe the government is preparing the political climate for higher energy prices, and the proposed solution involves aligning domestic fuel prices with international levels. The financial condition of Iran's oil industry is also a concern, with the National Iranian Oil Company facing significant debt and tax liabilities, which may indirectly contribute to currency instability and inflation.
Written by urgent.news from DW News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
