The war in the Persian Gulf region

There is a state of war or conditions closely resembling war in many countries surrounding the Persian gulf. The war has had an impact on travel and fuel, which is also affecting Sweden.
Updated
Foto: Johnér

Fuel

The Strait of Hormuz in Iran is one of the world’s most important energy transport routes. A large portion of the world’s crude oil and natural gas exports passes through the area. Since the war between the U.S. and Iran broke out, thousands of ships have been prevented from passing through the strait. This hinders the export of oil and natural gas and affects the global transport system.

There is a shortage of ships and containers, leading to port congestion and longer transit times, according to the Swedish Transport Agency.

The supply of diesel and gasoline in Sweden is considered stable because imports come from several different markets, writes the Swedish Energy Agency. Aviation fuel has fewer suppliers.

It is therefore more difficult to quickly replace missed deliveries of aviation fuel than other fuels. Even minor disruptions in deliveries can thus affect air traffic.

Travel

Risk of aviation fuel shortages

If you’re planning to travel this summer, it might be a good idea to plan your trip well in advance. It’s also wise to be prepared for the possibility of rescheduling and delays. Keep in mind that more people may choose to travel by train if flights are canceled or become more expensive.

The Swedish government has issued an early warning that there may be a shortage of aviation fuel. At present, the supply of aviation fuel in Sweden is stable. However, should the conflict escalate or continue, Sweden and Europe could be affected.

According to Caroline Asserup, Director-General of the Swedish Energy Agency, there is no shortage at present, but we must be prepared should the situation deteriorate. The longer the war continues and the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, the more long-term the effects may become.

Work is currently underway to prepare measures to reduce fuel consumption should this become necessary. Authorities are working together to be able to manage a worsening situation. Fuel will be prioritised for flights that are essential to society.

Higher ticket prices

Air traffic is affected by the war. On the one hand, flights must be rerouted to avoid coming too close to the conflict zone. On the other hand, the shortage of jet fuel is driving up prices.

– This affects the entire global aviation network. Fuel prices are rising, while flight routes are getting longer and fuel consumption is increasing. This results in significant losses for airlines. Consequently, ticket prices are rising, and ultimately, it is the passengers who end up paying, says Henrik Sandén, an investigator at the Swedish Transport Agency.  

To Swedish nationals in the affected countries

The situation in the war-torn region around the Persian Gulf can change rapidly. Airspace closures and flight cancellations may occur. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises against travel to several affected countries. Follow the travel advisories from the embassies for the country in question.

Are you in the area?

  • Keep updated on the situation from the Swedish Embassy. Links to the embassies are in the list below, Swedish only.  
  • Follow the advice of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and the Embassy, such as travel advisories
  • Register with the Swedish list
  • Download the UD Resklar app (in Swedish) and enable push notifications
  • Stay in touch with your family and friends.

Swedish embassies and consulates in the region

This information was provided by the Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs (Utrikesdepartementet), The Swedish Transport Agency ("Transportstyrelsen"), and the Swedish Energy Agency (”Energimyndigheten”) .