Iranian Parliament Official Rebuts US Treasury Claims of Fuel Shortages

TEHRAN — Ebrahim Azizi, Chairman of the National Security Committee of Iran's Parliament, on Sunday categorically rejected assertions by the United States Treasury Secretary regarding severe gasoline shortages in Iran, labeling the claims as baseless fabrications. The statement marks a sharp escalation in diplomatic rhetoric between Tehran and Washington over the state of Iran's domestic energy infrastructure.

Azizi addressed the allegations during a press briefing in Tehran, stating that reports of long queues at fuel stations across the country are entirely false and designed to mislead international observers. He emphasized that the Iranian government has maintained stable fuel supplies and that the distribution network is functioning without significant disruption. The chairman accused US officials of relying on distorted narratives to undermine confidence in Iran's economy ahead of potential diplomatic developments.

The controversy stems from recent comments made by the US Treasury Secretary, who cited intelligence indicating widespread gasoline rationing and extended wait times at pumps throughout major Iranian cities. The Treasury official suggested that these shortages were a direct consequence of ongoing international sanctions and mismanagement within Iran's energy sector. These remarks have drawn immediate condemnation from Iranian officials, who view them as part of a coordinated effort to destabilize the region.

Azizi did not provide specific data regarding current fuel inventory levels or daily consumption rates during his address, focusing instead on dismissing the US narrative. He argued that the allegations ignore the reality on the ground and serve only to justify continued economic pressure on Tehran. The Iranian parliament official called for an end to what he described as propaganda campaigns aimed at painting a false picture of hardship within the Islamic Republic.

The exchange highlights the deepening mistrust between the two nations regarding economic conditions in Iran. While US officials point to visible signs of strain in the energy sector as evidence of the effectiveness of sanctions, Iranian leaders maintain that their economy remains resilient and capable of meeting domestic demands despite external pressures. The dispute over fuel availability has become a focal point in the broader geopolitical standoff, with both sides using the issue to bolster their respective political positions.

As of Sunday evening, no independent verification of fuel queue lengths or supply levels has been released by international monitoring bodies. The situation remains fluid, with Iranian state media continuing to broadcast images of normal traffic flow at gas stations to counter the US narrative. Questions remain regarding the actual extent of any supply constraints and whether the conflicting accounts reflect genuine economic divergence or strategic information warfare. Further developments are expected as both governments prepare for upcoming diplomatic engagements where economic stability will likely be a central topic.