UK Petrol Drivers Urged to Fill Up Before March End Amid Price Surge
All UK petrol drivers have been issued a critical warning to fill up their vehicles before the end of March, as a brutal change hits forecourts across the country. Petrol prices are at risk of smashing through the all-time high of 191.5p per litre, driven by turmoil in oil markets due to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Expert Predictions and Economic Impact
According to industry experts, crude oil could surge to $150 (£112.74) a barrel by the month's end. This would surpass the previous peak of $116 (£87.19) seen during the Ukraine war in 2022. Howard Cox from FairFuelUK has warned that if oil prices exceed just $100, it could add 10-20p per litre to petrol and diesel costs "within weeks".
Mr Cox added a stark economic prediction: "If it reaches $120, I believe it will trigger a recession." He strongly advised drivers to fill up as soon as possible to mitigate the impending price hikes.
Global Factors Driving the Crisis
The US-Israeli war with Iran is disrupting oil supplies, pushing prices to their highest level since 2022. In response, Vietnam is considering a plan to scrap tariffs on fuel imports to help stabilise its domestic market and ensure national energy security. The Vietnamese ministry of finance stated that if the conflict continues and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz persists, alternative supplies on the international market will become scarce, further driving up prices.
The Iranian regime has warned that US-Israeli strikes could exacerbate the situation. A spokesperson for Iran's Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) said after recent strikes on energy sites: "If you can tolerate oil at more than $200 per barrel, continue this game."
Political Reactions and Short-Term Outlook
Former US President Donald Trump argued on social media that the spike in oil prices is "a very small price to pay" for global safety and peace, describing it as a short-term consequence. He claimed prices "will drop rapidly when the destruction of the Iran nuclear threat is over."
As the end of March approaches, UK drivers are facing a perfect storm of geopolitical tensions and market volatility, making early refuelling a prudent step to avoid soaring costs at the pump.
