Tehran, August 28 — Six months after the United States and Israel began their coordinated military campaign against Iran, the country remains intact but faces mounting economic strain. The conflict began on February 28, following Israel’s war in Gaza and the collapse of Iran’s regional alliances.
The United States intensified the pressure after suspending strikes in early August, shifting focus to economic measures. The Treasury Department launched Operation Economic Outcast on August 24, expanding sanctions on Iran’s financial networks. Secondary sanctions now target those moving Iranian oil, while enforcement of international restrictions has increased.
These tools mirror the “maximum pressure” campaign of the Trump administration but are applied more aggressively. Iran’s oil exports have dropped from nearly 1.8 million barrels per day to below half a million.
Inflation approaches 90 percent, and food prices have more than doubled compared to a year ago. The economic siege exploits structural vulnerabilities that predate the war, including decades of sanctions and limited diversification. The leadership transition after Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s death remains unresolved.
His son Mojtaba was appointed but has not made a verified public appearance. Decrees continue to be issued in his name, while rumors about his condition persist.
New military appointments, including Ahmad Vahidi as IRGC chief, signal continuity but also highlight the state’s struggle to rebuild its command structure. The Strait of Hormuz remains closed since Iran’s retaliation on February 28, creating a persistent chokehold on trade. This blockade has fused with broader sanctions to deepen Iran’s isolation. The dual narrative of economic governance failures and security-driven explanations continues to shape domestic discourse.
The campaign reflects a return to economic pressure as the primary tool of confrontation. While Iran has survived military attacks, the sustained siege tests its resilience.
The coming months will reveal whether the regime can stabilize its economy or faces deeper fragmentation. The situation underscores the interplay of military action and economic warfare. Iran’s ability to endure this pressure will depend on its capacity to adapt its systems and leadership.
The international community watches closely as the conflict enters a new phase.
