Iran is struggling to meet its petrol needs as a US naval blockade prevents the country from importing enough fuel to make up for a shortfall in domestic production.
According to Channels Television, Iranian Vice President Mohammad Jafar Ghaempanah disclosed the situation on Wednesday, saying the country’s petrol output is currently inadequate while access to imported supplies has been restricted by the US naval measures.
“Petrol production is insufficient, and because of the US naval blockade, we cannot import it,” Ghaempanah said, according to Channels Television, citing Iran’s state news agency, IRNA.
The development comes as pressure grows on Iran’s fuel distribution system, with motorists reportedly spending longer periods at filling stations in recent days. The queues have added to concerns over how the country will manage petrol supplies if the restrictions continue.
Iranian authorities are also considering adjustments to the existing fuel allocation system. The president’s chief of staff, Mohsen Haji-Mirzaei, said on Monday that petrol quotas would be reviewed, although he did not provide details on what changes could be introduced.
Ghaempanah also questioned the fairness of Iran’s heavily subsidised petrol system, arguing that the arrangement gives greater advantages to people who own several vehicles while those without multiple cars receive fewer benefits from the subsidy scheme.
“The distribution of petrol in the country is inequitable. Owners of several vehicles benefit from subsidies, unlike those who do not own one,” he said.
The current supply difficulties and pressure from the US blockade could make fuel policy increasingly sensitive as authorities seek ways to balance domestic demand, limited production and restricted imports.
