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Iranwire – Iranian authorities have arrested more than 40 people across the country in connection with a nationwide truck drivers’ strike that began on May 19, according to human rights sources.
The group Human Rights Activists in Iran reported that the strike, which initially started in the southern port city of Bandar Abbas, has grown into one of the largest labor protests in recent years.
Despite growing security pressure, the strike is still disrupting Iran’s transport system.
Arrests include 11 drivers in Kermanshah, one in Gilan province, two in Bandar Khomeini, one in Bandar Lengeh, nine in Qazvin province, two in Bahar County, and five across Khuzestan and Hamedan provinces.
Several arrests have also been reported in Shiraz.
On Wednesday, the Center for Human Rights in Iran issued a statement describing the protest as “the largest labor movement in recent years,” reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with economic conditions and living standards.
The strike has severely disrupted the transportation of goods across the country, highlighting broader economic grievances among Iranian workers.
Truck drivers have historically played a crucial role in Iran’s economy. Their coordinated actions have had a significant impact, causing delays and interruptions to key commercial routes.
The strike began in response to recent insurance premium increases and fuel pricing policy changes. Insurance costs rose from 2.4 million tomans ($29) to 3.3 million tomans (about $40), with even higher rates imposed on new drivers.
While security forces have arrested several drivers, authorities have also attempted to deploy alternative transportation options to reduce the strike’s economic toll.
Iran’s economy continues to struggle under the weight of international sanctions, high inflation, and energy shortages, which have fueled growing labor unrest across multiple sectors.
