Battered by war, Iran’s rulers wary of more economic pain and unrest if US tightens pressure
- Soaring inflation and food prices — many families are cutting staples like meat as consumer prices surge and wages lose value.
- Jobs and construction projects have stalled after the conflict, forcing professionals and small businesses to downsize, switch to gig work, or move to cheaper areas.
- Fear of new U.S. sanctions is heightening public anxiety and prompting tougher crackdowns and militia appointments to prevent renewed unrest.