Germany’s economy likely recorded modest growth in the second quarter of 2026 despite challenges from the Middle East conflict, according to the Bundesbank. The central bank said strong industrial activity, steady exports, and resilient consumer spending helped offset the impact of higher energy and commodity prices. The Bundesbank noted that Germany’s
France has lowered its economic growth forecast for 2026 to 0.7%, down from the previously projected 0.9%, according to a mid-year public finance update presented to lawmakers by the Finance Ministry. The revised outlook reflects weaker-than-expected economic performance during the first half of the year. Finance Minister Roland Lescure said the downgrade was driven by
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Rafael Grossi on Monday urged Iran to “re-engage” with the U.N. watchdog so inspections can resume at nuclear sites bombed by the U.S. and Israel a year ago. Iran has yet to inform the agency about the fate of those damaged facilities or the highly enriched uranium—including material close […]
Sweden has issued an early warning about a possible shortage of jet fuel, citing disruptions linked to the ongoing tensions in the Middle East. Energy Minister Ebba Busch said the alert is based on assessments from the national Energy Agency, highlighting growing concerns over fuel supply stability. Officials warned that in a worst-case scenario, the […]
Lufthansa has announced it will cut around 20,000 short-haul European flights this summer, citing soaring jet fuel prices that have made many routes unprofitable. Fuel costs have surged sharply following tensions in the Middle East, particularly linked to the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, which has disrupted fuel production and transport. The […]
Europe could face a severe jet fuel shortage within weeks as disruptions in Middle East supply chains intensify, according to the International Energy Agency. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has sharply reduced exports, pushing prices to record highs and raising concerns that stocks could hit critical levels by June if alternative supplies are […]
Global airline and travel industries are unlikely to see immediate relief despite the U.S.-Iran ceasefire, as jet fuel supply disruptions and refinery damage continue to strain operations. Aviation leaders warn that even if the Strait of Hormuz reopens, it could take months for jet fuel supplies to stabilize due to ongoing disruptions in Middle East […]
European retailers are warning of rising prices and weakening consumer demand as the ongoing Middle East conflict drives up energy and transportation costs. Companies across the sector say prolonged disruption could fuel inflation, with oil prices already climbing above $100 per barrel and increasing pressure on global supply chains. Major retailers including H&M and
Iran launched drone attacks on Kuwait’s Mina Al-Ahmadi oil refinery, causing fires and further straining global energy supplies, while Israel killed a spokesperson for Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in a targeted strike in Tehran. The ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran has already disrupted oil and LNG flows through the Strait of Hormuz, affecting roughly 12% of […]
British travellers are rebooking Easter holidays away from Dubai and other Middle Eastern destinations due to the ongoing Iran war and travel disruptions across the region. Airlines such as British Airways have temporarily suspended flights to Dubai, Bahrain, Tel Aviv, and Amman, prompting holidaymakers to seek “reassuring” alternatives that avoid regional instability.









