Iran Raises Gasoline Prices for Heavy Users as Economy Struggles

Iran on Tuesday introduced a higher gasoline price for its heaviest users, state media reported, in the latest economic pressure facing the country after months of war. It is the second such increase since December.

Fuel price hikes can be politically sensitive and contribute to inflation. A gasoline price increase in 2019 triggered nationwide protests and a subsequent crackdown that reportedly killed more than 300 people.

Without specifically mentioning the war with the United States, the government’s announcement cited the “current situation” and said the additional revenue from the price increase would be distributed among households.

Under the new system, consumers purchasing more than their monthly quota of 110 litres (29 gallons) of gasoline will now pay 100,000 rials (about 7 cents) per litre—twice the price they have paid since December.