Brief
Iranians stock up on food and medicine amid fears of tighter U.S. embargo
Shoppers in Tehran fill carts with rice, flour and canned goods as U.S. sanctions tighten, prompting worries of limited imports.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Iranians are buying large quantities of food and medicines in Tehran as fears grow that a new U.S. embargo and naval blockade will restrict imports, Al Jazeera reported on 29 September 2026.
President Masoud Pezeshkian warned at the United Nations that the blockade would prevent essential supplies from reaching the population. The United States, meanwhile, announced a ban on Iranian airlines worldwide and is urging other nations to cut trade ties with Iran.
At a shopping centre, 51‑year‑old Ali loaded his trolley with rice, flour, pasta, pulses, cooking oil and canned food, saying he believes the U.S. aims to "starve" the people to pressure the government. A 71‑year‑old grocer, Haj Pasandideh, said warehouses are currently stocked but daily price hikes driven by a weakening rial are prompting bulk purchases.
Flights to nearby countries have been suspended, making some medicines and mobile phone headsets scarce and more expensive.
Key facts
- Iranians are bulk‑buying staples and medicines due to fears of a new U.S. embargo. (aljazeera.com)
- President Masoud Pezeshkian warned the U.N. that the blockade would block food and medicine. (aljazeera.com)
- The U.S. announced a ban on Iranian airlines worldwide and is urging other countries to cut trade ties. (aljazeera.com)
- Prices of available medicines and electronics have risen because of the weakening rial. (aljazeera.com)
Sources
- [1] aljazeera.com — originally reported as “Iranians stock up on food and medicine as fears of new US fighting grow”
