Iranian fuel stations see longer queues as U.S. sanctions tighten

Lines at gas stations across Tehran have lengthened in recent weeks, with some drivers waiting two hours or more to fill their tanks, as the United States intensifies sanctions aimed at further isolating Iran's economy. The development follows remarks by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who said Washington will fully cut Iran off from the global financial system.

Iranians report that the shortage predates the latest U.S. statements, attributing it to the existing blockade and sanctions that have already limited fuel supplies. Inflation remains high and the rial has fallen to a record low, prompting consumers to stock up while they can afford it. A 51-year-old taxi driver said he is filling his car as much as possible because prices are expected to rise, and a grocery store owner noted that many customers now buy on credit due to tighter household budgets.

President Masoud Pezeshkian accused the United States of using economic pressure to create social problems and said Iran will not surrender to such tactics. While no new protests have emerged, experts warn that continued loss of purchasing power could eventually test the limits of public tolerance. A professor of Middle Eastern economics said daily erosion of buying power, combined with diplomatic setbacks, could increase frustration beyond the state's capacity to manage.

Analysts highlighted that sectors targeted by the sanctions, such as digital assets, gold, technology, aviation, and shipping, are essential for ordinary Iranians rather than the state itself. The United Arab Emirates recently announced a halt to trade and financial transactions with Iran, a move that may be linked to U.S. pressure and could have longer-term economic effects.

The naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has largely closed, remains a significant lever of pressure, potentially influencing global oil markets and U.S. domestic fuel prices ahead of upcoming elections.