The removal of such sanctions would then mean the return of Iranian oil to the world market. However, perhaps as a further indication of Iranian economic mismanagement, and despite this export gain, Iran’s Gross Domestic Product actually shrank by 0.6% in 2025, (Source), further underlining the depressing Iranian economic situation. The preceding analysis notwithstanding, freed from international isolation, Iran might even reclaim its role as a regional economic power, and an international oil exporting power. Indeed, even without Iranian supply, oil markets are anticipating a huge glut in available oil in 2026, leading to expected depressed prices. Overall, the year 2026 starts with an expected glut in the oil market, combined with mass uncertainty, both international and domestic, about the extent of future oil supply.

Source: Forbes January 07, 2026 14:50 UTC