Skip to main content

Iran's vaccine rollout marred by ‘favoritism’

While Iran’s Health Ministry had promised to keep everyone in the right queue for the coronavirus vaccination, there are media reports that the well-connected are taking their jabs and skipping the lines.
GettyImages-1231057680.jpg

When Iran’s vaccination officially kicked off with a televised, glamorous ceremony in Tehran Feb. 9, promises were made about a phased and fair distribution starting with hospital first responders and followed by senior citizens. Under such a scheme, hospitals were allocated their very specific rations.

However, a report by Mizan News Agency run by Iran’s judiciary says in some cases connections have served the basis and allowed for many to receive vaccines meant for others at the moment. “Uncles who were vaccinated without standing in the queue,” the sarcastic headline said of those instances in which the jabs for individuals who fail to show up or refuse to get them are given to others who enjoy connections to hospital managers.

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.