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Protests are spreading across several countries over soaring fuel prices and power shortages as the ongoing US-Iran war disrupts energy markets, putting growing pressure on households, businesses and essential services, CNN reports.
Concerns over oil supplies and transportation have intensified following a new US attack on Iranian oil tankers in the Persian Gulf and the resumption of conflict in Yemen. Crude oil prices rose above $100 a barrel last week, while analysts have warned that heating oil prices in the United States could increase by nearly 30% this winter.
The impact has been particularly severe in poorer countries, where higher fuel costs are increasing household expenses, putting pressure on businesses and transport operators, and raising the cost of essential services.
In Syria, protests erupted on Sunday after the government raised diesel prices by nearly 40% and petrol prices by more than 25%. Protesters blocked roads, set tyres on fire and stopped oil tankers in several areas. They also demanded lower fuel prices and criticised the government’s economic policies.
In Guatemala, truck drivers and people from various sectors blocked highways and staged protests last week against rising fuel prices. The country’s Congress is working on a proposal to cap fuel prices until the end of the year. Under the plan, the government would subsidise importers if prices exceed the set limit.
In Portugal, around 80 business owners and workers protested in the coastal city of Espinho on Saturday. They marched to Prime Minister Luís Montenegro’s residence. The country’s volunteer firefighters have also warned that rising fuel costs are placing an unsustainable burden on their operations.
In the southern French coastal town of Fos-sur-Mer, around 50 fishermen blocked a major fuel depot on Tuesday in protest against higher fuel costs and mounting financial pressures. Clashes broke out between protesters and police at one point.
In the Philippines, transport workers went on strike on Monday to protest rising fuel prices. They demanded fuel subsidies and lower taxes on petroleum products. Drivers and businesses have been under mounting pressure from higher costs since the fuel crisis intensified in March.
The government is currently considering cutting excise taxes on petroleum products.
The protests across countries reflect a common concern: the global energy crisis is rapidly increasing the cost of living, reducing people’s purchasing power and putting growing pressure on governments to respond.