The world cannot afford a prolonged oil war

September 8, 2026

Rising oil prices are bad news for the entire world. However, for countries like Pakistan, they can be particularly devastating.  Oil prices continued to rise on Monday as the conflict between the United States and Iran created fresh fears about the future of energy supplies from the Middle East. The fighting has also disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy routes. This should worry everyone.

Before the current conflict, a significant portion of the world’s oil passed through the Strait of Hormuz. If commercial shipping remains restricted for a long time, the consequences will not remain limited to the Middle East. Higher oil prices mean higher transport costs. Higher transport costs increase the price of food and other essential goods. Electricity and fuel can become more expensive, pushing inflation even higher. For Pakistan, this is particularly bad news.

Pakistan imports a large portion of its energy needs. Every major increase in international oil prices puts additional pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves and import bill. It can also make petrol, diesel and electricity more expensive for ordinary people.

Pakistani families are already struggling with the rising cost of living. Another major increase in fuel prices could affect almost every household. But Pakistan is not alone.

High oil prices can damage economies around the world. Poor and developing countries will suffer the most, but even major economies cannot completely escape the effects of a prolonged disruption in global energy supplies.

The latest attacks on oil tankers are especially alarming. Commercial ships should not become easy targets in a military conflict. The continued attacks are creating fear among shipping companies and disrupting one of the world’s most important trade routes. The war must stop.

The Strait of Hormuz must be reopened for safe commercial shipping. The international community must urgently work to prevent a wider conflict. The United States and Iran may have their political and military differences, but ordinary people around the world should not be forced to pay the price.