The Impact of New U.S. Sanctions on the Government, Critics, Opponents, and Society in Iran

Finally, November 5 has come and gone, and now Iran is witnessing the resumption and initiation of new U.S. sanctions. Eight countries that purchase about 80% of Iran's oil are currently exempt from the sanctions. However, the sanctions target the lifelines of Iran's economy, which means that in addition to oil, which is the most important, banking transactions, shipping, and insurance are also affected. Therefore, if and when the situation escalates, many experts believe that in the medium to long term, the new sanctions will severely damage Iran's economy. Nevertheless, Hassan Rouhani, the President of Iran, stated on Saturday that the sanctions have had no effect on the country's progress. Simultaneously, Mohammad Javad Zarif, the Foreign Minister, told Iranian state radio and television that he is aware of the prices of goods and that the situation is not good. On the other hand, a number of Iranian artists, civil and cultural activists, and journalists have issued an open letter asking the people of the world to stand in solidarity with them against the sanctions. What is the impact of the new U.S. sanctions on the government, critics, opponents, and various sectors of Iranian society? The impact of the new sanctions from the perspective of Mohammad Sadegh Javadihesar, Hooshang Amir Ahmadi, and Fereydoun Ahmadi is discussed in a debate. Mohammad Sadegh Javadihesar, a member of the Central Council of the National Unity Party in Mashhad, says that the sanctions tighten the space for both the government and its supporters, reformists, and most of the people. According to him, the overall result of the sanctions will be negative because it polarizes society and creates a war-like situation that restricts the ability of political and civil activists to voice their demands. Hooshang Amir Ahmadi, an economics professor in the U.S., states that the negative effects of the sanctions on the government and Iranian society will become evident in about six months. He believes that the government should take this opportunity to resolve not only the nuclear issue but all its disputes with the U.S. The director of Middle Eastern studies at Rutgers University adds that the sanctions are a source of joy for most of the government's opponents outside Iran but hinder the work of critics and reformists inside. Fereydoun Ahmadi, the secretary of the Alliance for Democracy in Cologne, Germany, disagrees with both Amir Ahmadi and Javadihesar, stating that there are supporters of sanctions in Iran as well as opponents outside. This political activist also believes that targeted sanctions against government institutions are more effective. However, he adds that despite having a negative impact on people's livelihoods, these sanctions are also effective in weakening the government. We invite you to listen to this controversial three-way debate.