According to data from the Iranian Statistical Center cited by the Iranian Labor News Agency (ILNA), Iran's inflation rate has reached an "alarming level," with many working-class families struggling to afford even basic food items. The annual inflation rate for the 12 months ending in July has reached 66%. The report states, "Ordinary people—especially workers and retirees whose incomes are near the minimum wage set by the Supreme Labor Council—are facing serious difficulties even with the most basic necessities." Data shows that food prices in Iran have more than doubled since July of last year, making basic foods such as eggs, rice, meat, and bread practically luxuries for many. Iranian labor activist Faramaz Toufiji stated that due to rising living costs, many workers can now only afford about eight days' worth of living expenses per month. "For more than 20 days a month, workers are practically penniless," Toufiji said. Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref stated on Monday that improving the lives of the Iranian people remains the government's top priority, while warning that "the enemy's strategy is to exploit the wave of rising prices."
