Iranian President Says U.S. Sanctions Put Tehran in War-Time Economy

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian acknowledged that U.S. sanctions and a naval blockade have battered Tehran’s economy, saying “we are in a war situation” as exports and imports fall about 25–35% and inflation spikes toward roughly 66%. He indicated Tehran may raise fuel prices to offset losses while focusing on inflation control, jobs, and domestic production, and reiterated the regime’s stance against retreat in the confrontation with Washington. The United States has framed the effort as economic pressure—Operation Economic Outcast—seeking to choke Iran’s revenue streams, including sanctions on Banque Misr UAE.