Global fuel crisis intensifies as Russia extends export bans and Arab nations face shortages

A global fuel crisis is intensifying as several nations implement export restrictions and face severe domestic shortages. Russia has extended its ban on diesel exports until the end of October 2026, following drone attacks on its refineries that have disrupted production. Additionally, Russia has extended its gasoline export ban until January 2027 and restricted jet fuel exports through November 2026.

In the Arab world, six countries—Iraq, Sudan, Syria, Yemen, Libya, and Lebanon—are grappling with fuel instability. In Sudan, the crisis in Khartoum has entered its sixth day. Syria has seen widespread protests following a sharp increase in fuel prices, including a nearly 40% rise in heating oil. Iraq is experiencing long queues at gas stations in Baghdad and other provinces, though the Iraqi Ministry of Oil has attributed the issue to increased consumption rather than a supply shortage. Meanwhile, Yemen and Lebanon have reported significant jumps in petroleum product prices.