Iran-US Tensions: The war between the United States and Iran has entered its sixth month now and shows no signs of easing. The continuous exchange of sharp rhetorical warnings and military strikes has pushed both nations into a dangerous deadlock amid diplomatic efforts by other countries to secure a peace deal.

Iranian Citizens Turn To 'Survival Economy'

The ongoing conflict has also severely strained both adversaries, leaving the US facing depleted missile stockpiles and Iranian citizens enduring economic hardships. It has forced Iranian families into a desperate 'survival economy' to secure basic cash. According to the Iranian news agency ILNA, citizens are liquidating almost any possession of value to face the wartime financial strain. According to reports, people are selling natural hair, used perfume bottles and second-hand belongings. Many are even renting out personal items to earn extra cash.

Citizens Sell Hair, Perfumes

Second-hand clothes and work shoes are being sold, while laptops are also being rented for short-term use. Online classified platforms have become a primary hub for this survival trade. Sellers are listing low-value household items, often bundling multiple cheap goods together into a single ad just to attract a buyer. Among the items being sold, hair has emerged as the most striking.

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According to an ILNA report, people are selling natural hair for use in cosmetic extensions. It is fetching several thousand Iranian rials based on its length, color, and quality. Used perfume bottles have also attracted buyers. Many household items that generally have little value once they are used are also being put in listings to get buyers.

Iranian Economy On Brink Of Collapse?

Recent data from Iran's Statistical Center highlights the economic strain faced by citizens. It indicates that the crisis has moved far beyond luxury goods and deep into essential daily survival. The annual inflation reached 66 per cent in the Iranian month ending in late July, while the year-on-year inflation was reported at 87.9 per cent.

Moreover, sharp increases in food prices and falling purchasing power have also been reported. In May, the National reported that Tehran was facing extremely high inflation. As a result, families are cutting back on food and other everyday expenses. Despite the immense financial pressure mounting on its citizens, Iran's economy remains remarkably far from an outright structural collapse.

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What Is Survival Economy?

Survival economy is an economic state, where people have to sell or rent out almost anything they own just to get by. Instead of relying on a normal job or steady income, families start trading everyday things like used clothes, empty bottles, or even their own hair. They do this because prices are sky-high, and it is the only way to get the quick cash they need for food, medicine, and daily survival.

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