79 Views The United States launched a ninth consecutive night of strikes against Iran on Monday as Tehran threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz, sending oil prices above $90 a barrel and raising fears of a global energy crisis. About 20% of the world’s oil and gas passes through the 33km-wide Strait of Hormuz, […]

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The United States launched a ninth consecutive night of strikes against Iran on Monday as Tehran threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz, sending oil prices above $90 a barrel and raising fears of a global energy crisis.

About 20% of the world’s oil and gas passes through the 33km-wide Strait of Hormuz, and the closure would have a global impact.

In response, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard warned that “not a single drop” of oil or gas would transit the waterway while US “aggression” continues.

The escalation comes as markets reacted immediately. Brent crude for September delivery rose 2.72% to $90.50 a barrel in early Asian trade Monday, after briefly crossing $91 — its highest since June.

Apparently, the country imports 100% of its finished petroleum products, mainly via Dar es Salaam and Beira, meaning Zambia will not be spared from the fallout of higher global prices and potential shipping delays.

Be that as it may, government and the Energy Regulation Board is on record dispelling fuel shortage fears.

Ministry of Energy Principal Public Relations Officer Bob Sianjalika recently said TAZAMA has sufficient petroleum stocks to meet national demand and that fuel depots nationwide remain fully operational.

“There is no risk of a fuel shortage,” Sianjalika said. “Authorities are working to expedite fuel tanker clearances at border points and ensure continuous stock replenishments.”

The ERB and government are urging motorists to avoid panic buying, citing robust strategic reserves estimated at about 45 days of consumption.

To cushion consumers, the Zambian government has temporarily reduced excise duties and maintained competitive pump prices despite global volatility.

Officials say supply chains can still face temporary disruptions due to geopolitical tensions and regional logistical constraints.

As a longer-term safeguard, the government said it is in active discussions with the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and other stakeholders to establish an alternative petroleum import route.

Sianjalika said the initiative is part of broader efforts to diversify fuel supply channels and reduce reliance on a single import route, aimed at strengthening Zambia’s energy security and safeguarding uninterrupted supplies.

Analysts warn that if crude remains above $90, consumers could see upward pressure on pump prices in the next adjustment.

The US has now carried out nine straight nights of strikes on Iran. Iran has responded with attacks on US targets in Kuwait, Jordan and Syria, further heightening risks to Gulf shipping.