Current Prices: Petrol 132.14p/L | Diesel 142.15p/L

Prices Jump as Middle East Conflict Hits Oil Markets

UK fuel prices have risen sharply this week as the conflict between the US, Israel and Iran disrupts global oil supplies. Petrol is up 0.43p per litre while diesel has climbed 0.69p – the first significant weekly increases we’ve seen in months.

The rises come after Brent crude oil surged from $73 to $80 per barrel over the weekend following strikes on Iran and retaliatory attacks across the Middle East. At least 150 tankers dropped anchor outside the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday as shipping through the critical waterway ground to a halt.

Year-on-Year Comparison

Despite this week’s increases, petrol remains cheaper than a year ago – though the gap is narrowing. At 132.14p, drivers are still paying less than the 139p+ seen in early March 2025. Diesel at 142.15p is also below year-ago levels, when prices were closer to 147p.

The question now is how long that remains the case.

What’s Driving the Increase?

Around 20 per cent of the world’s gas and oil is shipped through the Strait of Hormuz, making it the most critical chokepoint in global energy supply. Iran has warned vessels not to pass through the strait, with international shipping coming to an effective standstill.

Three vessels near the strait were struck by an “unknown projectile” over the weekend, according to the UK Maritime Trade Organisation. Several oil companies have suspended shipments entirely.

How High Could Prices Go?

AA president Edmund King predicted that petrol prices could return to levels last seen at the start of 2026, when a litre of petrol was an average of 135.7p. That would add another 3.5p to current prices.

The RAC outlined scenarios based on oil prices: at $80 a barrel, expect petrol around 136p; at $90, over 140p; at $100, closer to 150p.

At 150p per litre, a 50-litre fill would cost £75 – nearly £9 more than today’s £66.07.

The Diesel Premium Widens

The gap between petrol and diesel has stretched to 10.01p per litre – crossing the 10p threshold for the first time in recent weeks. Diesel drivers are now paying £5 more per 50-litre tank than petrol users, up from £4.88 last week.

What Should Drivers Do?

Mr King advised: “There is no need for drivers to break their refuelling routine. It takes time for cost increases to work their way through to the pump.”

PetrolPrices director Andrew Watson added: “During periods of volatility, the gap between the highest and lowest local prices often widens.”

That makes shopping around more important than ever. With prices varying by 20p or more per litre between stations during volatile periods, checking CheckFuelPrices before filling up could save you significant money as prices climb.

Looking Ahead

The chart shows prices had been relatively stable since late 2025, with petrol gradually declining from around 140p to the low 130s. This week marks a clear inflection point.

How far prices rise depends on the duration and intensity of the conflict. Even if Iran shows signs of de-escalation, it could take a few weeks for shipping to return to normal.

We’ll continue tracking prices daily. For now, expect gradual increases at the pumps over the coming weeks.