SAEDNEWS: Iran’s first vice president said the country’s enemies are seeking to offset their battlefield setbacks by intensifying economic pressure. He called for greater national unity and stronger market oversight to address rising prices and counter the ongoing economic challenges.
According to Saednews, Mohammad Reza Aref said the Iranian government had successfully navigated difficult wartime conditions through national cohesion and coordination, warning that its adversaries were now seeking to compensate for military setbacks by increasing economic pressure on the country.
Speaking at a meeting of the Market Regulation Headquarters, Aref said the government must confront what he described as an economic war through effective planning and preparation.
He acknowledged that the opposing side might possess greater resources in economic warfare but said the experience of Iran's two recent imposed wars had demonstrated that national unity and solidarity could overcome such challenges.
Aref also called for stricter market supervision, ordering inspection agencies to take firm action against overpricing, underweight sales and hoarding. He said a central market oversight body would initially focus on guidance but would pursue legal action if violations continued.
Improving living conditions remains a leading priority for the president and the government, Aref said. Key objectives for the next two years include controlling inflation, stabilising markets and protecting the purchasing power of essential goods, particularly for vulnerable groups.
He further stressed the importance of preparing for worst-case scenarios, claiming that Iran's adversaries were active on both economic and social fronts and were seeking to fuel public dissatisfaction and social instability.
According to Aref, the private sector had supported the government during the two recent wars and could continue to play an important role in managing markets and helping the country withstand economic pressure.
Addressing regional developments, Aref said Iran remained committed to international law but would not give up its rights. He added that the country must preserve the achievements of the recent war, including its position and interests in the management of the Strait of Hormuz.
