Iraq Petrol Shortage Deepens Amid Strait of Hormuz Disruptions

Long queues have formed at petrol stations in Baghdad and other parts of Iraq as the country faces a fresh petrol shortage. The shortage is linked to disruptions in fuel imports caused by tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route.

Iraq relies on imported fuel to cover part of its domestic demand despite being one of the world's major oil producers. The disruption has put additional pressure on petrol stations, with motorists facing delays as supplies tighten.

The situation is particularly frustrating for Iraqis, given their country's huge oil production. 'It is unreasonable that we produce so many barrels of oil a day, yet still do not have enough gasoline to meet our daily needs,' Ibrahim Hashem, a Baghdad resident, told AFP outside a fuel station in central Baghdad.

The government has described the petrol shortage as temporary and said efforts are underway to secure additional fuel shipments. Iraqi authorities have secured one tanker and are working to bring in more supplies to reduce pressure on petrol stations.