IranWire:

Iran’s government plans to stop paying cash subsidies to 27 million people, with 7 million already cut off, prompting warnings from a lawmaker that the move could trigger protests.

Ahmad Meydari, minister of labor and social affairs, said the cuts are based on a parliamentary resolution.

Ali Kord, a member of parliament’s Social Commission, warned the subsidy cut could cause protests despite the small payment amounts.

“Although the subsidy amount is low, cutting it can lead to social tensions and protests,” Kord said after Meydari’s parliamentary session.

Kord called the subsidy cuts “inappropriate and unethical” and said they would provide material for “enemies of Islam, foreign news agencies, and networks opposed to the system.”

The Pezeshkian government cited budget deficits and lack of resources as reasons for eliminating the subsidies.

Kord said the cuts target the top three income deciles but will harm vulnerable populations.

“Those from vulnerable classes, the disadvantaged, rural, and tribal people will be excluded from receiving subsidies,” Kord said.

He said many citizens in remote border areas lack identity documents and cannot register property or vehicles in their names.

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