Prolonged Iran Conflict threatens world energy security — Russia

Russia has expressed concern that prolonged conflict around Iran threatens global energy security and could drive up oil prices, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said at a briefing.

She noted that Middle East tensions have already thrown oil and gas markets into turbulence, inflicting significant damage on the world economy, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

“This concentration of resources and supply routes makes the global market vulnerable to destabilisation in the region, which directly threatens global energy security,” Zakharova stated. 

The escalation in the Strait of Hormuz followed US and Israeli military operations against Iran. While in June Iran had only threatened to block the route, by late February it effectively restricted shipping in the area.

Regular attacks on tankers carrying oil and LNG through the strait have complicated energy imports to the US and Europe, triggering sharp fuel price spikes. As of the morning of March 18, Brent crude is trading at $102.19 per barrel.

Zakharova also voiced deep concern over clashes between Afghanistan and Pakistan, urging both sides to avoid further escalation.

“We view with deep concern the ongoing military confrontation between friendly countries—Pakistan and Afghanistan—which carries tragic consequences, including for civilians,” she said.

The conflict escalated on February 22 after Pakistan struck positions of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan group. Days later, the Taliban, in power in Afghanistan since 2021, launched offensives in the border areas of Pakistan. In response, Islamabad declared “open war” against the Taliban.

By Jeyhun Aghazada