These 22 U.S. Cities Could All Break 100-Degree Temperatures Today
ForbesAug 04, 2023
The Facts
On Tuesday, the government of Iran declared a two-day holiday covering Wednesday and Thursday in response to what it stated was an "unprecedented heatwave" that poses a threat to public health. Temperatures in Iran have soared past 40°C (104°F) and could reach 50°C (122°F) in the south of the nation this week.
The move will see schools, banks, and government agencies shutter, and the Iranian Health Ministry is warning of the risks the heat poses to the elderly, children, and those with underlying health conditions. Electricity usage is also set to reach record highs.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
While Iran may blame the West's sanctions for their struggles with the climate, it is Tehran's mismanagement of resources that has exacerbated heat waves into a protracted and severe crisis. Iran's leaders have broadly ignored the climate crisis, and are now reaping the consequences. These holidays are a cover to prepare Iranians for a "new normal" of water and electricity shortages.
Establishment-critical narrative
US punitive sanctions placed on Iran have constrained any attempt Tehran makes to transition to a greener, climate-resilient country. By being excluded from the world's economy, Iran is forced to continue its use of inefficient and polluting technology. This will prevent the nation from lessening its emissions and will sadly lead to more suffering internally. The US must ease its cruel sanctions.
