Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

UK Fuel Prices Surge Amid Ongoing US-Israel Conflict

4/13/2026

29 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Fuel prices in the United Kingdom have risen to 158.3p (petrol) and 191.5p (diesel) per litre, amid the ongoing US-Israel war with Iran.
The conflict has disrupted oil production and transport, causing wholesale prices to fluctuate.
Despite a ceasefire announced on April 7, prices have risen for 43 consecutive days.
Experts say any pump-price reductions depend on the ceasefire's stability and developments in the Strait of Hormuz.

History

Historical Context

The 1973 oil crisis began when the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC) imposed an embargo against nations supporting Israel during the Yom Kippur War, leading to a 400% increase in oil prices. This crisis exposed the vulnerability of economies like the UK, which faced severe energy shortages and inflation, and set the stage for ongoing volatility in global oil markets.

1 of 2

Story summary

Fuel prices in the United Kingdom have risen to 158.3p (petrol) and 191.5p (diesel) per litre, amid the ongoing US-Israel war with Iran.
The conflict has disrupted oil production and transport, causing wholesale prices to fluctuate.
Despite a ceasefire announced on April 7, prices have risen for 43 consecutive days.
Experts say any pump-price reductions depend on the ceasefire's stability and developments in the Strait of Hormuz.

1 / 2