Iranian Ambassador France Sanctions Economic Discontent
- Mohammad Aminnezhed, Iran's ambassador to France, has asserted that economic pressure resulting from international sanctions is the primary driver of recent public discontent within Iran.
- Aminnezhed acknowledged the economic roots of the protests and stated that Iranian authorities have formally recognized public demands.
- The ambassador argued that lifting these sanctions is the most effective way to support the Iranian population, particularly it's youth.
Iranian Ambassador Attributes protests to Sanctions, defends Government Response
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Mohammad Aminnezhed, Iran’s ambassador to France, has asserted that economic pressure resulting from international sanctions is the primary driver of recent public discontent within Iran. His statements, made to the OMERTA media group, come amid ongoing scrutiny of protests that began in late 2022 and have continued, albeit wiht fluctuating intensity, into 2023 and 2024.
Economic Grievances and Sanctions
Aminnezhed acknowledged the economic roots of the protests and stated that Iranian authorities have formally recognized public demands. He specifically linked the economic hardship to the re-imposition of sanctions following the United States’ withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the 2015 nuclear deal, in 2018. U.S. Department of State – Iran Sanctions. These sanctions have considerably impacted Iran’s oil exports, banking sector, and overall economy, contributing to rising inflation and unemployment.
The ambassador argued that lifting these sanctions is the most effective way to support the Iranian population, particularly it’s youth. He cited the period following the 2015 nuclear accord as evidence, claiming it led to tangible economic improvements and increased social optimism. Iran International – Iran nuclear Deal: What happened and where are we now?
Protest Dynamics and Government Response
Aminnezhed characterized the initial protests as peaceful and legitimate expressions of public grievances.Though, he alleged that external actors and organized elements subsequently “hijacked” the demonstrations, leading to violence, property damage, and casualties on both sides – among civilians and security forces.Reuters – Iran says foreign interference behind protests – state media.
The ambassador defended the Iranian government’s decision to implement temporary internet restrictions, framing them as a necessary measure to quell violence and protect lives. These restrictions, which included blocking access to social media platforms, drew criticism from human rights organizations. Human Rights Watch – Iran: Internet Shutdown Amid Protests
Resilience and Future Outlook
Aminnezhed rejected assertions of systemic collapse within Iran, emphasizing the Islamic Republic’s ability to withstand decades of external pressure.He highlighted ongoing government efforts to manage resources and implement policy reforms aimed at addressing the economic challenges.As of January 24, 2026, the political and economic situation in Iran remains complex and subject to ongoing international negotiations regarding the JCPOA and sanctions relief. Council on foreign Relations – Iran Nuclear Agreement.