Iran Facing 'Alarming' Inflation Crisis as Basic Foods Become Unaffordable

Inflation rates in Iran have reached alarming levels, leaving many working-class families unable to afford basic food items, according to state-affiliated Iranian media. Data from the Iranian Labour News Agency (ILNA) indicates that annual inflation over the 12-month period leading up to July stands at 66%.

"Ordinary people – particularly workers and retirees whose incomes are around the minimum wage set by the Supreme Labor Council – are facing serious difficulties affording even the most basic necessities of life," ILNA reported on Monday.

Citing the Statistical Center of Iran, ILNA noted that food prices have more than doubled since July of last year. Staples such as eggs, rice, meat, and bread have effectively become luxury goods for a significant portion of the population.

Labor activist Faramarz Toufighi stated that due to the surging cost of living, many workers can now only cover their expenses for about eight days each month. "For more than 20 days of every month, workers are effectively left with nothing," Toufighi said.

Meanwhile, Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref stated on Monday that improving public livelihoods is the government's primary focus, while warning that the enemy aims to exploit rising prices, as reported by the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA).

Iran's economy was already struggling prior to the conflict, with harsh economic conditions serving as a major catalyst for anti-regime demonstrations that began in Tehran in 2025.