Iranian President Pezeshkian Urges Energy Rationing and Resilience Amid Stalled US Talks and Economic Strain

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian called on citizens to reduce consumption of electricity, gas, gasoline, and water to protect industrial production amid ongoing US sanctions and a naval blockade, stating that 'the condition for resistance and standing up to the West is for everyone to endure hardship.' He added that cultural and sports complexes could be closed if necessary to prioritize energy for factories, according to semi-official Fars news agency and corroborated by Iranian outlet Asriran on October 7, 2026.[1][2]

Pezeshkian framed the measures as essential for national resilience while expressing readiness for a 'balanced and fair agreement' with the US, provided Iran's national interests and rights are respected. This comes against a backdrop of stalled mediation, with US officials insisting on nuclear progress before broader talks advance, and reports of Iranian drone strikes on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz in recent days.[3][4]

Iranian state media reported a sharp drop in oil transit through Hormuz to around 3.8 million barrels per day recently, down from a weekly average of 9.3 million, contrasting with US claims that flows have largely recovered and Iran has 'lost complete control' of the strait.[5] Multiple independent trackers confirm disrupted shipping and attacks on tankers in early October 2026.[6][7]

The rial's depreciation and broader economic pressure have also affected neighbors like Iraq. Earlier in 2026, Pezeshkian similarly urged conservation due to infrastructure damage from conflict.[8][9] Negotiations appear unlikely to resolve before US midterms, with Pezeshkian noting repeated attacks following prior talks have eroded trust.