Drive slower, work from home and ditch the tie: the world responds to Iran war fuel crisis

Oil crisis triggered by blockade of strait of Hormuz prompts emergency measures to protect supply and halt rising prices

Motorists queue up to get fuel at a pump, fearing a possible fuel shortage due to the US Iran war, in Srinagar, Indian controlled Kashmir, Wednesday, March 25, 2026. (AP Photo/Mukhtar Khan)

Shrinking fuel stocks and soaring prices are leading countries around the world to burn coal, ration fuel, shorten work weeks and tell citizens to stay at home.

Fossil fuel supplies have reduced since the war against Iran led to the closure of the strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping route for oil and seaborne gas. The shortfall has prompted emergency measures as governments attempt to halt rising costs that have thrown economies into chaos.