Capitals, April 4 (SANA) Despite their geographical distance from the Middle East, Australia and New Zealand are feeling the economic and logistical repercussions of the ongoing U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict, facing fuel shortages, power outages, and disruptions to travel.
Australia: Power Cuts and Fuel Shortages
ABC News reported on Saturday that electricity outages have affected hundreds of fuel stations, particularly in rural areas, due to increased pressure on energy supplies linked to the Middle East war. Official data indicate that diesel is unavailable at around 410 stations, while unleaded petrol is out of stock at 145 stations nationwide.
Calls for Rationing
The Australian government urged citizens not to hoard fuel, warning that individual stockpiling could worsen the crisis and strain the logistics network.
Energy Minister, Chris Bowen, encouraged rationing, noting that current reserves are sufficient for 39 days of petrol, 29 days of diesel, and 30 days of aviation fuel. He added that 53 fuel tankers are en route from Asia, the U.S., and Mexico, expected to arrive this month to boost supplies and alleviate shortages.
Australia relies on imports for about 90 percent of its fuel needs, making it vulnerable to global market fluctuations, especially amid rising tensions and the war entering its sixth week.
Travel Disruptions
Fuel shortages have also impacted travel, leading many Australians to cancel Easter holiday plans, traditionally one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, warned that the economic fallout from the conflict could last for months and urged citizens to use public transport to reduce pressure on fuel supplies.
New Zealand: Rising Fuel Prices and Electric Car Surge
New Zealand has experienced a sharp rise in fuel prices, with petrol up more than 30 percent and diesel rising nearly 74 percent since the conflict began. The increase has driven electric vehicle sales to triple in March, according to official government data.
Over 1,100 Flights Canceled
Air New Zealand confirmed that around 1,100 flights were canceled in March and April due to the Middle East conflict, affecting approximately 44,000 passengers.
The airline stated that unprecedented volatility in jet fuel prices has forced adjustments to flight schedules and fares, a trend mirrored by carriers worldwide.
The Middle East war continues to impact global markets, disrupting fuel supplies and shipping routes. Gulf countries remain a key pillar of global energy security, contributing 21.8 percent of crude oil production and 26.6 percent of exports worldwide. The ongoing conflict has therefore caused significant negative effects on the international energy market.
k.MZ
