Drivers gathered in extensive queues at several petrol stations in Baghdad on Saturday, a development reported by Middle East Eye, as the country experienced a noticeable decline in gasoline availability. The shortage follows a series of disruptions to oil‑product imports linked to the ongoing hostilities in the Middle East.
Although Iraq ranks as the second‑largest crude oil producer within OPEC, its domestic refining capacity falls short of meeting the nation's demand for gasoline and other derivatives. Consequently, the state relies on imported refined products to satisfy consumer needs, a dependence that has become increasingly problematic as regional shipping routes encounter delays.
In recent weeks, the pattern of long lines at fuel outlets has recurred at regular intervals, primarily at stations operated by the government in the capital and other provinces. The repeated congestion reflects a broader strain on the supply chain, with motorists reporting shortages and higher prices at the pumps.
The Iraqi oil ministry attributed the situation to the broader regional conflict, indicating that the fighting has created logistical challenges for tanker traffic destined for Iraqi ports. According to the ministry, these obstacles have postponed the arrival of shipments carrying refined fuels, exacerbating the domestic shortfall.
Authorities have not announced immediate measures to alleviate the queues, but the recurring nature of the problem underscores the vulnerability of Iraq's fuel supply chain to external geopolitical shocks. Observers note that unless refinery output is expanded or alternative import routes are secured, similar disruptions may continue to affect motorists across the country.
Reporting attribution: based on reporting by Middle East Eye — original source: https://www.middleeasteye.net/live-blog/live-blog-update/iraqis-queue-fuel-regional-war-disrupts-imports.