Iran's Fuel Rationing System Strained as Long Queues and Protests Hit Cities

Iran's fuel distribution system showed serious strain over the weekend as motorists in multiple cities waited hours in queues at petrol stations, according to reports citing videos shared on social media. The disruption came on the eve of the anniversary of the November 2019 fuel price increase that triggered nationwide unrest.

Footage circulated on Telegram and other platforms purported to show long lines of vehicles stretching for considerable distances in southern cities including Kazeroun, Bandar Abbas, Evaz and Lordegan. In one clip from Kazeroun, drivers were heard expressing anger over the shortages, while a local Telegram account said the queues had become a primary concern for residents.

In the northern city of Ardabil, taxi drivers reportedly parked their vehicles in protest and declined to pick up passengers, leaving commuters stranded. The reports could not be independently verified, and Iranian authorities have not issued a public statement on the scale of the disruption.

The timing is sensitive. On 15 November 2019, Iran announced an overnight increase in petrol prices, raising the cost of the first 60 litres per month from 10,000 to 15,000 rials and subsequent fuel to 30,000 rials. The move sparked nationwide demonstrations within hours, and the subsequent crackdown was among the deadliest in the country's recent history.

Seven years on, the weekend's queues and protests underscore persistent public frustration over fuel availability and pricing. Iran has faced recurrent fuel supply challenges in recent years, and social media has often served as a channel for citizens to document shortages and local grievances.

The developments are being closely watched for any sign of broader unrest as the anniversary passes. For international observers, the situation highlights the pressure on Iran's domestic fuel management and the potential for consumer grievances to escalate quickly.