Ethiopia urges fuel conservation as Middle East conflict strains global oil supply
ADDIS ABABA — Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Monday called on fuel distributors, service stations, and the public to use fuel carefully as rising tensions in the Middle East disrupt global oil supplies.
In a statement shared on the social media platform X, Abiy Ahmed warned that the ongoing regional conflict has created pressure on international fuel markets. As a result, many countries that rely on imported petroleum, including Ethiopia, now face slower deliveries and supply shortages.
Government calls for responsible fuel use
The prime minister stressed the need for responsible fuel consumption until the situation stabilizes. According to him, the disruption in the Middle East has made it difficult for fuel-importing nations to obtain supplies at their usual pace.
He therefore urged fuel distributors, filling stations, and consumers to manage available resources wisely. In particular, he asked them to prioritize essential sectors such as transportation, healthcare, food distribution, and other critical services.
Regional conflict raises global energy concerns
The supply disruption comes amid growing hostilities in the Middle East. The crisis intensified after Israel and the United States launched joint strikes against Iran on Feb. 28. The attacks reportedly killed around 1,300 people, including Iran’s then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Following the strikes, Iran carried out drone and missile attacks targeting locations in Israel as well as neighboring countries such as Jordan, Iraq, and several Gulf states that host US military facilities. Consequently, the conflict has expanded across the region and increased concerns about global energy security.
Strait of Hormuz disruption deepens supply fears
The situation has further worsened since Iran effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz in early March. This waterway handles a large share of the world’s oil shipments, making it one of the most critical routes for global energy trade.
Because Ethiopia imports all of its petroleum products, the country remains highly vulnerable to international supply disruptions. Therefore, authorities continue to encourage strict fuel management until global markets return to normal.
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