As price of fuel ratchets up, so does anger of people who can no longer afford it
Fuel Prices Rise as Anger Spreads Across Countries
Qwenews.com – As price of fuel ratchets up, households, businesses and public services are facing growing financial pressure. Rising oil costs during the monthslong US war with Iran have lifted energy prices worldwide, fueling demonstrations in countries where families can no longer absorb higher transport, heating and electricity costs.
Oil climbed above $100 a barrel again last week after further US strikes on Iranian oil tankers in the Gulf and renewed fighting in Yemen. The conflict has also heightened concerns about shipping through the Bab al-Mandab Strait, an important route for global trade and energy supplies.
Higher fuel prices affect far more than drivers at gas stations. Costlier diesel can increase the price of deliveries, farming and public transport, while small businesses may struggle with rising operating expenses. In places that depend on fuel for electricity or backup generators, the increase can deepen the hardship caused by power cuts.
US motorists have also faced higher gasoline prices, and households using heating oil have been warned of a difficult winter. Analysts expect heating-oil prices to rise by roughly 30% during the Iran war. The burden can be especially severe in lower-income countries, where governments have less capacity to offset price increases.
Syria Faces Its Largest Protests Since Assad’s Fall
In Syria, a major increase in fuel prices prompted the country’s largest protests since the Assad regime fell two years ago. The government temporarily raised the diesel price to 175 Syrian pounds, or $1.43 per liter, an increase of about 40%, while gasoline prices rose by more than 25%.
The Energy Ministry attributed the move to high global fuel prices and maintenance work at Baniyas, Syria’s largest refinery. With refinery work increasing reliance on imported fuel, the country has become more exposed to elevated international energy costs.
Most demonstrations were peaceful, but protesters on the Hasaka–Deir ez-Zor highway on Sunday burned tires, stopped oil tankers and blocked traffic. Muaz Al Abdullah, a Syria analyst at ACLED, said the protests reflected longer-running frustration over falling purchasing power, poor services and concern about access to fuel.
“All those present here want a reduction in diesel prices. We don’t want higher wages, we want cheaper (fuel),” protester Yasser Salim said.
Another demonstrator, Bassam al-Ali, criticized government spending priorities and warned that pressure on ordinary people could lead to broader unrest. As price of fuel ratchets higher, the Syrian protests show how quickly an international energy shock can become a domestic political crisis.
Guatemala Debates a Fuel Price Cap
Guatemala also saw anger over fuel costs last week. Truckers and other protesters blocked highways and caused damage in several locations, while separate demonstrations in Guatemala City included peaceful marches calling for urgent government action.
Lawmakers are considering legislation that would cap fuel prices through the end of the year. Under the proposal, fuel importers would receive a government subsidy when market prices rise above the cap, although the measure remains in the legislative process.
“This is an issue that must be resolved as a country. The executive, the legislative, and everyone else involved must resolve it. People cannot pay these prices and not feel the impact on their finances,” Congress President Luis Contreras Colindres said.
FAQ: What Rising Fuel Prices Mean for Families
Why do higher oil prices affect everyday costs? Fuel is used to move people and goods, power machinery and, in some places, generate electricity. When its cost rises, transport, food production and delivery expenses can increase as well.
Why are protests emerging over fuel costs? Fuel is essential for commuting, heating homes, operating farms and keeping small businesses running. When prices rise sharply, families with limited budgets can be forced to cut spending on other necessities.
Could governments reduce the impact? Some governments may consider subsidies, price caps or other temporary support. Guatemala’s proposed cap is one example, but such measures can be costly and depend on legislative and financial decisions.