Iraq faces gasoline shortages amid regional import disruptions

Iraq is experiencing significant gasoline shortages, leading to long vehicle queues at fuel stations across Baghdad and other provinces. Despite being the second-largest oil producer in OPEC, the country relies heavily on imported oil derivatives because domestic refineries cannot meet the national demand.

The Iraqi Oil Ministry attributed the supply deficit to logistical challenges caused by regional conflicts in the Middle East. Ongoing hostilities, particularly the tensions involving the United States and Iran, have disrupted maritime traffic through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, delaying the arrival of fuel tankers at Iraqi ports.

Authorities report that while average daily gasoline consumption is approximately 33 million litres, demand spikes to 38 million litres during periods of public panic. Oil Minister Bassem Mohammed Khudair described the situation as a “temporary shortage” and stated that the ministry is working to stabilize supplies, with new shipments expected to arrive soon.