Part 7/10:
Iran's societal structure adds another layer of complexity. Decades of subsidies have created an environment where cheap oil and gas are taken for granted, leading to widespread entitlement among the population. In 2022, energy subsidies accounted for an astounding 27% of Iran's GDP, making the country one of the most heavily subsidized energy nations worldwide. Past attempts to cut these subsidies have triggered massive public protests, resulting in significant unrest and even a violent backlash against the state.