Iranian Oil Minister Resigns Amid Ongoing US Blockade

Iranian Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad has resigned from his position due to personal reasons, according to Iranian state television. However, he initially offered his resignation some time ago, which was rejected by President Masoud Pezeshkian.

The president's office stated that Paknejad insisted on stepping down, and his resignation was eventually accepted. He has been praised for his 'efforts and sincere service' during his tenure.

Paknejad has been replaced by Hamid Bovard, the CEO of the National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC), who will now oversee Iran's oil ministry at a critical time. The country is facing a US blockade on its oil exports, which has disrupted global crude shipments and led to fuel shortages in Iranian cities.