Iran May Classify Living Standard Decline as State Secret Amid Sanctions

The Iranian government is reportedly considering classifying the decline in living standards as a state secret, a move that has raised concerns among citizens already struggling with severe economic hardship. The announcement comes amid the US sanctions campaign dubbed "Operation Economic Outcast," which has exacerbated the country's economic woes. In August, the price of vegetable oil surged by 383% year-on-year, while egg prices rose by 294% and chicken meat by 177%. The cost of basic staples like eggs has become unaffordable for working-class families, leading to a sharp increase in potato consumption and subsequent shortages. Iranian feminist Golshan Fathi expressed disbelief that people cannot afford a normal life. The economic situation is further highlighted by the exchange rate, which has reached two million Iranian rials against one US dollar, underscoring the severity of the crisis. The potential classification of such statistics as state secrets would obscure the true extent of the hardship faced by the Iranian population.