Protests have erupted across numerous cities in Iran after the government enacted a series of subsidy cuts, leading to a harsh government crackdown that resulted in a reported four deaths. 

Iranians on social media have complained since May about the high prices of cooking oil, bread and dairy products. The price of some foods has increased by over 300%. 

President Ebrahim Raisi promised May 15 at a meeting with economic officials and ministers that, in place of the general subsidies on food items, cash would be deposited into the accounts of Iranians who qualify. 

Vice President Mohammad Mokhber said that the price of cooking oil, chicken and eggs would “return to normal in the coming days.” On the price of bread, Mokhber said that “infractions would not be tolerated under any conditions.” He said that the administration has not made any policy decisions with respect to prices, subsidies or their sale. He said that the price of bread should have not changed one cent, and if it did then there has been a legal violation. Mokhber suggested that some individuals were taking advantage by increasing bread prices and they would face legal consequences.