Truck Drivers in Iran Strike Again

Reports indicate that a group of truck drivers in various cities across Iran resumed their strike on Sunday, October 1. In some cities, the strike began on Saturday. Meanwhile, Jamal Hamidi, the manager of the Imam Khomeini Port transportation terminal in Khuzestan province, stated in an interview with the IRNA news agency that on Sunday, most truck drivers at this terminal stopped working. According to Mr. Hamidi, while 2,000 trucks usually operate at this terminal daily, only 300 were active on Sunday. IRNA reported that rising prices of spare parts, especially tires, the method of cargo scheduling, welfare facilities including supplementary insurance and low retirement pay, high road tolls, and increased cargo brokerage were among the issues faced by truck drivers. At the same time, the truck drivers have demanded a reduction in highway toll rates, the elimination of brokers and intermediaries from terminals and freight companies, mandatory cargo announcements in cargo announcement halls across the country, and oversight of arbitrary actions by traffic officers and punishment of bribery officers. Truck drivers had previously gone on strike in June. Reports indicated that low freight rates, high payments to transportation companies, increased insurance and social security costs, and rising fuel prices and spare parts due to currency market fluctuations were among the problems faced by drivers. Truck drivers are demanding a 35 to 50 percent increase in freight rates and have stated that they will not accept less than a 35 percent increase. However, the government has only raised truck rates by 20 percent. The Ministry of Roads and Urban Development had previously promised drivers that it would pursue a plan allowing the drivers' union to import tires with state currency. Drafting a bill to amend laws and pay retirement and insurance contributions for drivers has been among other promises made by officials of this ministry. The computer system at Tabriz Airport was hacked on June 6, and a message supporting the truck drivers' strike was published. According to IRNA, the Telegram channel of the Free Workers Union, the virtual space, and Radio Farda's website reported on this matter. The spokesperson for the Iranian judiciary threatened to deal with security forces regarding occupational and economic protests. A 'special committee' in parliament is following up on the problems and demands of truck drivers. The government has designated 'parks and sports venues' as locations for gatherings. Protests that are carried out with trucks are supported by the General Confederation of Labor of Italy with truck drivers in Iran.