The increase in diesel prices in Europe by 40% following disruptions in traffic from the Strait of Hormuz and a decrease in the supply of petroleum products from Russian refineries has reached its highest level. According to analysts, this price increase has led to higher costs for consumers and pressure on Republicans ahead of the midterm elections in the United States.
Impact of the Iran War on Energy Prices
Analysis by the non-governmental organization "Transport and Environment" shows that diesel prices have increased by 40% compared to the beginning of this year, imposing additional costs on European consumers. This price increase has resulted in approximately 30 euros more for a 50-liter tank. Additionally, gasoline prices have also risen by 28% during the same period.
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According to estimates, since the start of the Iran war on February 28, 2025, the increase in diesel prices has imposed an additional cost of 203 million euros daily on European consumers. This price increase has occurred due to Europe's heavy reliance on fossil energy, particularly diesel, which accounts for over 40% of petroleum product consumption on the continent.
Traffic Shortages in the Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz, which was one of the most important energy transit routes in the world before the war began, is now facing a reduction in vessel traffic. On September 22, only three cargo-carrying vessels passed through this waterway, one less than the previous day. This number is lower than the average of about 15 vessels over the past 10 days.
Juliette Egal, a senior data analyst at Transport and Environment, emphasizes that Europe's reliance on internal combustion engines for road transport has made the continent dependent on a volatile commodity. She added that expanding electric transport could enhance Europe's resilience during crises.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, announced last week that fossil fuel imports have cost Europe an additional 90 billion euros since the start of the Iran war, without providing even a single additional molecule of energy to the continent. This critical situation highlights the need for the European Union to adopt new measures.
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