President Hasan Rouhani of Iran said that it is expected that the measures taken by the government to curb the spread of coronavirus might ease down within two or three weeks.
While talking to his people in a televised address on Saturday, he accused opponents of the revolutionary government of shutting down economic activity.
He added that the country must start its economic activity back to normal.
Iran is the worst-hit country by the global pandemic after Italy and China. According to the health ministry, a total of 20,610 confirmed cases in Iran.
The death toll in Iran rose to 1,556, and more than 7,000 people have recovered from the coronavirus pandemic.
However, Rouhani, in his address, had a balanced discussion on the virus and economic activity.
Over the recent months, Iran has faced a series of crisis which shook the country’s political and economic situation.
Many economic sanctions on Iran followed the 2018 withdrawal of the United States from Iran’s nuclear deal. It crippled the economic conditions of Tehran.
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As a result of poor economic conditions, Iran has failed to produce the desperately needed equipment and gears from international markets. It has also hampered its steps and efforts to curb the coronavirus pandemic.
However, the Iranian regime has taken many steps to contain the COVID-19.
It has ordered the closure of educational institutions. Some of the famous religious sites to the Muslims have also been closed for believers. The parliament and Friday prayers are temporarily closed.
Rouhani defends response to COVID-19
On Friday, Hasan Rouhani defended his government’s response to the coronavirus outbreak. He said
Our nation has managed to reach its goals, despite difficulties … Iran will overcome the coronavirus with unity,”
He also praised the medical staff and doctors for their services during this hard time for the country.
Many in Iran have accused the government of late response and question the transparency of information about the cases.
Local authorities and officials have advised the citizens not to travel unnecessary, especially the Persian new year travels.
The Persian new year is important for Iranians people, usually they come out in streets and travel to different provinces.
The red crescent Iran reported that the worst-hit areas had seen a lot of movement. Many people have left the thirteen provinces by road.
However, the health ministry spokesperson said that the government would not allow any tourists in the provinces for the new year holiday.
