Lead

European drivers are facing record fuel prices as the conflict in Iran continues to disrupt global energy markets. Diesel prices have surged more than 30 percent since the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran on February 28, according to France 24. The escalation has choked the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for oil shipments, driving up costs across the continent.

Coverage Comparison

The price spike has been widely reported, with outlets focusing on different aspects. France 24 highlighted the broader European impact, noting that diesel is now 30 percent more expensive than before the strikes and that the European Union, a major importer of diesel, is feeling the pinch. TASS, citing Dutch newspaper Algemeen Dagblad, reported on record prices in the Netherlands, where Euro95 gasoline reached 2.597 euros per liter and diesel hit 2.811 euros per liter — both unprecedented levels.

Both sources attribute the rise to the US and Israeli strikes on Iran and the resulting disruption of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. TASS also noted that the price surge began in late March and early April, coinciding with the escalation of the Middle East conflict.

Key Claims

  • Record prices in the Netherlands: The average recommended price for Euro95 gasoline reached 2.597 euros per liter, and diesel reached 2.811 euros per liter, according to reports from Algemeen Dagblad cited by TASS. These figures surpass the previous records of 2.53 euros and 2.79 euros, respectively.
  • Pan-European diesel surge: Diesel prices across Europe have risen more than 30 percent since the US-Israeli strikes on Iran, according to France 24. In France, diesel prices have climbed over 30 percent, while regular petrol has increased by 17 percent, based on government statistics cited by AFP.
  • Supply chain disruption: The price hike is linked to the disruption of logistical chains and navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, as reported by both France 24 and TASS.
  • EU diesel import dependence: The European Union is a net importer of diesel, with Middle East states providing more than half of Europe's diesel in 2025, according to France 24. This dependence amplifies the impact of supply disruptions.

Perspectives

Market and Economic Perspective

Experts cited by France 24, such as Susan Bell of Rystad Energy, note that the international supply-demand balance for diesel was already tight before the war, leading to a more pronounced price escalation compared to gasoline. The per-barrel price of diesel rose above $200 in Europe, the highest since March 2022. Analysts predict further increases as long as the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked, with potential knock-on effects on inflation.

Regional Perspective (Netherlands)

The Dutch market, as reported by TASS, is facing the risk of a fuel deficit, with prices setting records. The country's previous records were already high, but the current surge has pushed costs to unprecedented levels. Experts do not rule out continued growth in fuel prices in the country.

Geopolitical Perspective

The conflict in Iran, and specifically the US-Israeli strikes, are identified as the primary cause of the fuel price rise. The disruption of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz has been a key factor, affecting supply chains and leading to the current price surge across Europe.