“Obviously, the government will inform the public before taking any action in this regard,” said Mohsen Paknejad.

Speaking at a meeting on winter fuel supply, attended by senior government officials including Mohammad-Jafar Qaempanah, deputy executive of the president, Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi, and other key officials, Paknejad also provided updates on fuel imports and production efforts.

Negotiations are underway with northern neighbors, including Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan, regarding gas imports or swaps via Iran, he said, noting that “Once these discussions are finalized, the outcomes will be shared with the Iranian public.”

Paknejad highlighted recent increases in liquid fuel production, stating that in the first 100 days of the 14th administration, diesel production rose by 7 million liters per day through enhanced refinery feedstock and process modifications, stating that “This achievement was made possible by the innovative efforts of my colleagues at the Oil Ministry.”

He went on to say that part of the increased supply of liquid fuel for power plants has been secured through imports, emphasizing that every possible measure has been taken to minimize challenges for citizens during the cold season.

Regarding potential changes to gasoline pricing, Paknejad reiterated, “No decision has been made yet. The government’s priority remains on optimizing gasoline consumption. Any potential changes will be announced to the public earlier.”

The minister emphasized that Iran has fully met its contractual obligations for gas exports to Iraq and Turkey, and preparations are underway to begin talks with Turkey on extending its gas import agreement.

“Turkey has expressed its interest in continuing gas imports from Iran, recognizing us as a reliable supplier,” he noted.

Paknejad also stated that discussions on gas swaps and imports from Russia are ongoing but have not yet been finalized.