Trump’s Tech Deals with Rivals Fuel Envy in Iran

As President Trump toured the Middle East, securing billions in tech deals with countries like Saudi Arabia, Iranians were grappling with a stark contrast: crippling power outages and an economic crisis at home.

Feeling the Squeeze

Majid, a 34-year-old computer programmer in Tehran, found himself stuck in traffic this week due to a power outage that had shut down the city’s traffic lights. Earlier that day, he and his colleagues were trapped on the 16th floor of their office building without electricity or air conditioning.

Iranian state television was filled with news of the country’s worsening energy and economic woes. The government had announced daily power cuts, changed school hours to an early 6 a.m. start, and warned of impending water shortages.

A Tale of Two Worlds

Meanwhile, satellite news channels broadcasted President Trump’s every move, highlighting the economic progress of nations often considered rivals to Iran. These countries, eager to showcase their ties to the United States, were announcing multi-billion dollar deals with Trump, emphasizing advancements in technology like artificial intelligence.

“I’m watching Trump announce tech deals with Saudi Arabia, our main rival, and thinking, ‘Where are we, and where are they?’” Majid, who asked to remain anonymous for fear of reprisal, shared in a phone interview. “We are worried about riding the elevator at work, and they are getting artificial intelligence technology.”

A Glaring Disparity

The stark contrast between Iran’s struggles and the economic prosperity being showcased by its regional counterparts fueled a sense of frustration and envy among many Iranians. Majid’s story highlights the deep-seated anxieties and unease within Iranian society as they witness a world seemingly moving forward while their own nation faces significant challenges.