Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's proposed state budget of about $104 billion aims to reduce the country's budget deficit by borrowing from the National Development Fund of Iran and increasing commodity prices, including energy carriers. The budget reduces projected oil income by 10.5 percent and transfers 32 percent of oil revenues to the NDFI. Iran's reliance on oil income has historically impacted inflation rates, with increased spending during high oil income periods and borrowing during low periods both fueling inflation. The unemployment rate in Iran stands at 11.7 percent, exacerbated by a lack of investment and poor business environment for the private sector. The administration's anti-inflationary policies have led to recession and increased unemployment. Policymakers are encouraged to adopt long-term policies to decrease reliance on oil income and enhance the non-oil sector's role in the economy.

Iranian producers are losing business to foreign competitors due to high domestic production costs, outdated products, and inability to meet current demands. Despite a ban on the import of about 880 items, foreign goods continue to enter the Iranian market, with China being the largest exporter. The economic crisis and competition have led to the shutdown of numerous production units and factories. Over the first five months of the current fiscal year, Iran's imports increased in volume and value, with significant rises in car parts, passenger cars, rice, and other goods. Some experts argue that this increase in imports signals an economic recovery, but others, like Abbas Samavati, refute this, pointing to outdated production capabilities and lack of technological advancement.

Abu Azrael, dubbed 'father of the archangel of death,' has become a popular figure online for his role in fighting Islamic State in Tikrit, Iraq. His real name is Ayyub Faleh al-Rubaie, a former member of the Mahdi Army and a father of five. His background includes being a physical education teacher and having skills in taekwondo and shooting. Abu Azrael's story highlights Iran's propaganda efforts, as he is a member of the Kata'ib Imam Ali militia, which has ties to Iran. His social media presence is part of a sophisticated campaign to promote Shia militias, and while he has a large following in Iraq, Iranians also show great interest in him.