Iran President Cites Food Struggles Amid War Pressure

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated on Saturday, October 24, 2026, that many Iranians are struggling to afford food due to economic pressure stemming from the Middle East war with the United States. Speaking in a speech shared on his website, Mr. Pezeshkian called for an end to what he described as a "state of neither war nor peace," emphasizing Tehran "must also get out of this situation."

The conflict began on February 28 when the United States and Israel attacked Iran, resulting in the deaths of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and senior military commanders. Iran retaliated with attacks on U.S. assets in the region and on Israel, concurrently restricting passage through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy supplies. Washington responded by imposing a blockade on Iranian ports, which has restricted the country's oil exports and trade. Diplomatic efforts, including a ceasefire deal mediated by Pakistan in mid-June, collapsed shortly after, with both sides accusing each other of violations.

Since the ceasefire's failure, the U.S. has conducted sporadic attacks on Iranian targets, while Iran has targeted vessels attempting to cross the Strait, alleging they violated Tehran's conditions for safe passage. Mr. Pezeshkian's remarks came amid growing fears of renewed fighting. On Friday, October 23, U.S. Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack indicated that U.S. strikes on Iran could resume as soon as that weekend. The spokesman for Iran's Revolutionary Guards responded on Saturday, October 24, telling Fars news agency that armed forces were prepared for any new attack, vowing a response "several times greater" even for limited enemy action.

What to watch: The potential for renewed U.S. strikes and Iran's response in the coming days.

Editor's note: Comprehensive coverage of the source material including specific dates, quotes, and the breakdown of the conflict's timeline and current diplomatic status.