IranWire

A nationwide truck drivers' strike has spread to 155 cities across Iran on its 11th day, as authorities have arrested at least 20 drivers and the workers' union demands their immediate release.

The Union of Truck Drivers and Transportation Organizations of Iran stated that the “immediate and unconditional release of all arrested colleagues” has become the primary demand of those participating in the strike.

The union confirmed that nine drivers were detained in Bijar and reported that others are being held in Kermanshah, Ardabil, Gilan-e-Gharb, Fars, Isfahan, Hormozgan, and Behbahan provinces.

“We will not back down from our demands. We stand against the pressure and raise our voices louder,” the union said in a statement.

Taxi drivers in Sabzevar have also joined the strike, according to the union.

A group of lawyers issued a statement supporting the drivers’ right to strike and condemned the arrests.

“The right to strike is a legal and legitimate right,” the lawyers said. “The truck drivers’ strike has a clear history as a form of labor protest.”

They warned against the “arbitrary detention” of drivers and the broadcast of forced confessions obtained under pressure.

“These actions are contrary to the principle of innocence and the fundamental rights of citizens,” they said, calling such practices violations of international law.

The lawyers demanded the immediate release of all detained drivers and labor activists, stating that continued detention constitutes a “systematic suppression of the legitimate voice of workers’ protest.”

They also said that authorities would be held responsible for any “physical and psychological harm” inflicted on the detainees.

The strike began in response to increases in insurance premiums and fuel pricing policies. Insurance costs for drivers rose from 2.4 million tomans (approximately $29) to 3.3 million tomans (about $40), with new drivers facing even higher rates.

The work stoppage has disrupted transportation along major commercial routes, marking one of the most significant labor actions in Iran in recent years.

While security forces have arrested several drivers, authorities have also deployed alternative transportation methods to minimize the economic impact.

Iran’s economy continues to face serious challenges, including international sanctions, inflation, and energy shortages - factors that have fueled growing labor unrest across multiple sectors.