Iran Fuel Crisis Sparks Long Lines and Protests Ahead of Key Date

Iran's fuel rationing system has reached a critical point as long lines form at gas stations. Drivers report waiting for hours in cities such as Kazeroun and Bandar Abbas. Taxi drivers in the Ardabil region have abandoned their vehicles in the streets as a form of protest.

The tension arrives on the eve of the anniversary of the so-called Bloody November. This event marks seven years since the 2019 protests against a sudden hike in gasoline prices. At that time, state repression resulted in thousands of deaths across the country.

The Iranian government maintains a rationing limit of 160 liters per month per vehicle to avoid further price adjustments. The measure aims to contain popular dissatisfaction following years of economic crisis. However, the shortage of supplies has worsened in recent weeks.

The country's economy suffers from international sanctions and blockades in the Strait of Hormuz. Internal corruption also points to a factor that deteriorates the distribution infrastructure. The current scenario places the regime before a growing risk of social instability.

The global market monitors the situation due to Iran's strategic importance in energy production. Geopolitical instability in the Middle East usually raises risk aversion and puts pressure on the dollar against emerging market currencies.