The European Union may reinstate emergency energy measures originally enacted during Russia’s 2022 gas cutoff, as supplies of diesel and jet fuel tighten amid the Iran conflict.
Gas prices across Europe have surged over 70% since hostilities began on February 28. Iran's de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted oil and gas flows from the Middle East.
While crude oil and natural gas imports to the EU remain unaffected-due to reliance on non-Middle Eastern suppliers-the bloc depends heavily on regional refining hubs for diesel and aviation fuels.
Benedict George of Argus Media noted that recent shipments through the strait are expected to arrive by April 10 but warned of possible localized shortages.
EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen confirmed discussions among member states about reviving crisis tools like profit taxes and demand reduction initiatives similar to those deployed after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
"Even if peace arrives tomorrow," Jorgensen stated, "we will not return to normal anytime soon."
He urged adoption of efficiency steps from the International Energy Agency, including remote work and public transit use.
Despite pressure, the EU reaffirmed its stance against Russian energy purchases, citing risks of indirectly funding Moscow’s war in Ukraine.
