Irans Economy Crippled by Combination of Corruption and Sanctions
January 2, 2026 • Al Jazeera
Iran’s Economy Faces Growing Challenges Amid Escalating Protests
Protests in Iran have intensified, with demonstrators calling for economic reforms and greater transparency. According to Sina Azodi, a professor at George Washington University, corruption and sanctions are exacerbating the country’s economic crisis.
Azodi notes that the combination of these two factors is having a significant impact on Iran’s economy. Sanctions imposed by other countries have limited the country’s access to international markets and resources, hindering its ability to trade and invest.
Corruption, meanwhile, has become a major issue in Iran, with widespread allegations of embezzlement and cronyism at all levels of government. This has led to a lack of trust among citizens and a decline in economic activity.
The consequences of these factors are being felt across the country, with many Iranians struggling to make ends meet due to rising inflation and unemployment. The protests, which have been ongoing for several months, reflect widespread discontent with the current economic situation.
Azodi’s research suggests that sanctions and corruption are having a compounding effect on Iran’s economy, making it increasingly difficult for the government to implement reforms and stimulate growth. As the protests continue, it remains to be seen whether the Iranian government will take steps to address these issues and stabilize the economy.
Source: Al Jazeera