Iran Faces Ongoing Energy Crisis as Power Shortages Lead to School and Business Closures

Iran has ordered the closure of schools and public buildings across several provinces, including Tehran, due to an ongoing energy crisis. The closures, announced on Friday, aim to help manage electricity consumption amid severe fuel shortages that have left several power plants unable to function.

The government decision, which affects a third of the country’s provinces—including Tehran, Qom, and Kurdistan—was made in response to sub-zero temperatures causing an uptick in demand for energy. Despite Iran's substantial oil and gas reserves, the country has been struggling to meet its energy needs due to aging infrastructure and the economic impacts of years of international sanctions. The Iranian government cited the cold weather as a major factor in this ongoing energy crisis.

The closures follow a similar pattern of action taken late last year, when Iran faced rolling blackouts that caused widespread disruptions. In November, homes and businesses were plunged into darkness, and Tehran's government offices remained closed for several days. Schools across more than half of the country also sent children home in response to energy shortages.

A significant factor contributing to Iran's current energy woes is believed to be a reported Israeli attack on a major gas pipeline in February, which exacerbated the country's energy deficit. The attack, attributed to Israel by The New York Times, forced Iran to deplete its emergency gas reserves, leaving it unable to replenish its supply efficiently.

As Iran grapples with this energy shortage, international tensions continue to rise, particularly with Israel. Despite Iran's vast natural resources, its internal infrastructure challenges and external pressures are contributing to the ongoing energy crisis, which shows no signs of abating in the immediate future.