Michael Fortune
12 March 2026
Recent conflicts in the Middle East have sent shockwaves through global energy markets, fundamentally altering the landscape of oil and gas prices. Since late February 2026, tensions have escalated significantly, particularly after the United States and Israel launched a joint military campaign against Iran. This has effectively closed off the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most vital maritime corridors for oil and gas transport.Now, let's talk numbers. As a direct consequence of this conflict, we’ve seen Brent and WTI crude oil prices soar past $100 a barrel, with recent figures hitting a staggering $111. This price increase signals a serious alarm for economies dependent on oil imports. And it's not just oil; the gas market is feeling the heat as well.Due to Iranian drone strikes, QatarEnergy has had to shut down its Ras Laffan liquefied natural gas plant, a crucial supplier for Europe. This move has led to European gas prices skyrocketing by over 50%, reaching €47.70 per megawatt-hour. With Qatar and the UAE together accounting for around 20% of global LNG exports, the ripple effect of the Strait of Hormuz closing cannot be underestimated. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/conspiracy-theories-exploring-the-unseen--5194379/support.
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