A leading UK daily, The Independent, has warned that Bangladesh could become the first country in the world to run out of fuel as a consequence of the ongoing US–Iran war, raising alarm over the country’s heavy dependence on imported energy.
According to the report, the closure of the Strait of Hormuz—a critical global oil transit route—has severely disrupted fuel supplies across Asia. Bangladesh, which imports nearly 95 percent of its energy needs, has been particularly vulnerable to the shock.
The situation on the ground reflects growing strain. Petrol stations in Dhaka are reportedly running dry, with long queues forming as motorists wait overnight for limited supplies. In some areas, fuel is being sold informally in bottles at inflated prices, indicating panic buying and supply shortages.
Officials cited in international media suggest that Bangladesh’s fuel reserves have dropped to critically low levels. Recent estimates indicate that the country may have less than 10 days’ worth of fuel remaining, including sharply reduced diesel and crude stocks.
Despite the government’s assurances that there is no crisis, several emergency measures point to mounting pressure. These include fuel rationing, temporary closure of educational institutions, and costly emergency imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) at prices reportedly 2.5 times higher than previous months.
Energy analysts argue that the crisis is not solely due to the war but also reflects long-standing structural weaknesses. Following the Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, global energy markets became increasingly volatile. However, Bangladesh continued to rely heavily on imports while delaying investments in renewable energy and domestic gas exploration.
Experts warn that if the conflict persists and supply routes remain blocked, Bangladesh’s economy could face severe disruption within weeks. Industrial production, transportation, and electricity generation are all at risk of being significantly affected.
The report concludes that while Bangladesh cannot control global geopolitical developments, it must urgently address internal vulnerabilities by strengthening energy security, curbing supply mismanagement, and accelerating the transition to renewable energy.
As the war unfolds thousands of miles away, its consequences are already being felt in Bangladesh—placing the country at the frontline of a global energy crisis.
