Labor strikes in Iran’s oil sector could end regime

Worker strikes over economic demands hit Iran’s vital petrochemical and oil industries during the last week, prompting one expert to comment that the demise of the regime could start with labor unrest.

“Localized strikes and protests are more common than most realize. Generally, they end on their own. But when the collapse of the Islamic Republic begins, it is likely to begin here,” tweeted Norman Roule, who served for 34-years in the Central Intelligence Agency and oversaw Middle East programs.

The core economic demands from workers are wage increases, reduced working days, and the end of temporary contracts.

Twitter was abuzz with images and video of Iranian employees engaged in work stoppages. According to the London-based Iran International news organization, the workers launched their campaign with the mottos “We will not give up our rights”, and “Strike campaign 1400”, a reference to the present Iranian calendar year of 1400.

Iran International reported that industrial workers from Jahan Pars, Gachsaran Petrochemicals, Tehran Refinery, Abadan Refinery, as well as additional plants, took part in the strike.

Iran has faced nearly continuous protests by workers and pensioners for months over an inflation rate of more than 50%, high unemployment and unpaid wages.