By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, has called on the Iranian people to remain strong in what he described as an economic struggle aimed at frustrating the country’s enemies.

In a written statement, Khamenei said Iran had already shown its strength to the world during military confrontation with its opponents, but now needed to focus on the next stage through economic and cultural resistance.

He urged citizens to give priority to locally made goods and support domestic industries as the country faces growing economic pressure.

The leader also appealed to business owners whose companies have suffered losses to avoid dismissing workers as much as possible.

Iran has faced years of sanctions, and the recent conflict involving the United States and Israel has added more strain to the economy.

Despite a ceasefire in the region, reports say US military actions have disrupted Iranian ports and affected oil exports.

Recent national statistics indicate inflation has risen above 50 percent, adding pressure on households and businesses.

The Iranian rial also fell to a record low against the US dollar this week, according to currency trackers.

A labour official further said around 191,000 people have applied for unemployment support after losing their jobs due to the effects of the war.

Source: Macau News Agency