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IEA: Iran war has triggered oil shock larger than 1970s; Australia faces fuel shortages and ABC strike

Mar 23rd 2026 · Australia

Fatih Birol says closure of the Strait of Hormuz has removed about 11 million barrels a day and 14 billion cubic metres of gas, while Australia reports east coast fuel shortages and the national broadcaster faces its first staff strike in two decades.

  • IEA executive director Fatih Birol warned the Iran war energy shock is larger than the twin 1970s oil shocks combined and the fallout from Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
  • The IEA said the Strait of Hormuz closure has cost roughly 11 million barrels of oil per day and about 14 billion cubic metres of gas.
  • Australia's energy minister Chris Bowen confirmed dozens of east coast service stations are experiencing petrol or diesel shortages.
  • ABC staff have announced a nationwide strike, the first in 20 years, which is expected to cause widespread news disruption.