Pakistan, Aug. 18 -- Iran's annual inflation rate has reached 66 percent, according to official government data. The country's Statistical Center reported a sharp rise in consumer prices over the past year. At least eight essential goods have more than doubled in price during the same period. The figures highlight the growing pressure on Iranian households.

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Food and beverage prices recorded the steepest increase during the year. Prices in this category rose by 128 percent on an annual basis. Meanwhile, Iran's monthly inflation rate reached 3.1 percent in July. The continued monthly increase indicates that price pressures remain strong across the economy...