Key updates from Iran include the introduction of the Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act aimed at increasing pressure on entities facilitating Iran’s oil trade, U.S. encouragement for Kurdish oil exports from Iraq, criticism of Iran’s leadership, worsening conditions for nurses, and increased economic instability indicated by falling currency value. Events signaling efforts for democratic reform and women’s rights activism are set to take place in Washington, DC, and Paris.
This week, Representatives Mike Lawler (NY-17) and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20) introduced the bipartisan Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act, aimed at tightening sanctions on entities facilitating Iran’s illicit oil trade. Key provisions include: adding sanctions on foreign entities involved in processing or selling Iranian oil; establishing an Interagency Working Group on Iranian Sanctions; coordinating international efforts through a multilateral group; and enforcing sanctions against anyone supporting Iran’s energy sector.
The U.S. is applying pressure on Iraq to resume Kurdish oil exports as part of President Trump’s strategy to cut Iranian oil exports to zero. Officials claim that resuming exports from the Kurdistan region would help compensate for reductions in Iranian oil revenues. An advisor to Iraq’s prime minister, however, denied any direct threats were made regarding sanctions from the U.S.
National Security Adviser Mike Waltz emphasized during a CPAC interview that Trump’s maximum pressure campaign aims to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions and sponsorship of terrorism, ensuring peace in the Middle East. Waltz highlighted the need to maintain pressure on Iran to prevent its influence from spreading and to avert a nuclear threat, which remains central to U.S. foreign policy.
Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s claims of popular support are increasingly seen as hollow, reminiscent of the late Shah’s rule. His attempts to project authority through such claims are viewed as desperate maneuvers. Analysts have remarked on the broader implications of regional events, particularly the fall of allies like Bashar al-Assad, which has strategically weakened Iran’s position in the Middle East.
The conditions for nurses in Iran are deteriorating, with salaries remaining below the poverty line as workloads escalate due to staffing cuts. Many nurses are leaving the profession or emigrating, with an estimated 1,800 nurses departing annually. This dire state was acknowledged by the state-run newspaper Vatan-e Emrooz, which noted Iran’s paradoxical trend of training and exporting nurses abroad for free.
Zohreh Dadras, a women’s rights activist and political prisoner, was barred from attending her scheduled Ph.D. entrance exam despite having received an admission card. Her mother revealed on social media that all preparations for her attendance were completed, yet she was prevented from leaving the prison at the last moment, allegedly at the direction of security agencies.
On February 20, 2025, the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar in Iran reached 941,000 rials, marking a significant rise in inflation. Reports indicate a five percent increase in the dollar’s value within a week. This intensified inflation follows a nearly 70 percent rise over the past year, exacerbated by increased liquidity and economic instability in the country, leading to consequent hikes in gold prices.
IAEA Director-General Grossi’s recent comments described the JCPOA as ineffective regarding Iran’s nuclear program, prompting sharp reactions from Iranian officials who labeled his statements biased and politically motivated. Grossi stressed the need for a new framework to effectively address Iran’s nuclear activities, controversially undermining the original agreement’s authority.
Iranians supporting democratic reforms are set to rally in Washington, DC, on March 8, 2025, advocating for justice and an end to oppression in Iran. This demonstration will feature human rights activists and Iranian-American community members voicing their demand for freedom. The event promotes a strong collective voice for change in Iran’s political landscape.
An International Women’s Day Conference is scheduled for February 22, 2025, in Paris, France, organized by the NCRI Women’s Committee. This event aims to honor the struggles of Iranian women for freedom and equality, bringing together women leaders and activists from around the world for impactful discussions and solidarity initiatives.
The recent developments underscore significant political and economic changes concerning Iran, highlighting intensified sanctions, regional dynamics, the plight of Iranian citizens, and the call for democratic reforms. Political pressure from the U.S. to curb Iranian influence and support democratic movements is evident, as is the growing unrest and dissatisfaction within Iran regarding governance, especially concerning healthcare and human rights. The upcoming events indicate a mobilization of efforts aimed at fostering dialogue and accountability within Iran.
Original Source: www.ncr-iran.org
