The United Kingdom is currently grappling with a severe surge in fuel prices, a direct consequence of the escalating conflict in the Middle East. Drivers across the nation are feeling the impact, with fears of an imminent fuel crisis intensifying as prices at the pump reach unprecedented levels and 'No Fuel' signs become more common at petrol stations.

March witnessed the most significant monthly jump in UK petrol and diesel prices on record, according to the RAC. Simon Williams, RAC head of policy, described this surge as 'unprecedented,' noting that fuel prices have 'never risen this fast in a single month.' Unleaded petrol climbed by 20p per litre in March, from 132.83p to 152.83p, surpassing the previous record monthly increase of 16.6p in June 2022. Diesel prices escalated even more rapidly, increasing by 40p from 142.38p to 182.77p, nearly double the previous record rise of 22p in March 2022, which followed Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Despite these dramatic increases, the RAC indicates that prices generally remain below the summer 2022 peaks of 191.5p for petrol and 199p for diesel. However, some motorists have reported seeing prices nearing £2 a litre, such as diesel at 199.9p at Rivington Services off the M61. The financial burden on motorists has been substantial, with millions more being spent daily since the US and Israel initiated strikes on Iran in late February. In Greater Manchester, drivers are actively seeking more affordable options, with long queues forming at places like Costco, where petrol was priced at 145.9p a litre.

The primary cause of this fuel price escalation is the disruption to global oil supplies linked to the conflict in the Middle East. A critical factor is the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route through which approximately 20% of the world's oil passes. Iran's effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz in response to US-Israeli attacks has severely limited supply and intensified competition for fuel, particularly diesel, driving up oil prices globally.

Since the conflict's onset, the price of Brent Crude, the international benchmark, has surged dramatically from around $73 to over $110 a barrel. As crude oil is the main ingredient in petrol and diesel, these increases directly translate to higher pump prices. Analysts estimate that every $10 increase in oil prices adds approximately 7p per litre at the pump.

While the UK's fuel supply is currently considered stable, reports of petrol stations nationwide being forced to close due to running out of fuel are circulating. Some industry figures have warned that prolonged disruption of the Strait of Hormuz could lead to fuel shortages in Europe. However, the government and Fuels Industry UK maintain that supplies are 'resilient,' with the UK holding significant emergency reserves—more than 90 days' worth, as mandated by international agreements with the International Energy Agency (IEA).

Dr. Jonathan Owens, a supply chain expert and Senior Lecturer in Operations Management at the University of Salford, cautioned that further escalations could lead to a 'worst-case scenario' involving 'temporary fuel shortages or periods of panic buying at petrol stations.' He emphasized that such disruptions, though often short-lived, can have immediate and significant operational impacts, particularly for sectors relying on just-in-time delivery models. Businesses are advised to plan for short-term supply problems and manage customer expectations during this period.

In response to the rising cost of living and potential fuel shortages, local authorities across Greater Manchester are implementing and reviewing support measures. Many councils are focusing on providing financial assistance to residents struggling with increased household costs, often utilizing the Crisis and Resilience Fund, which has replaced the Household Support Fund.

Bolton council is closely monitoring the situation, ready to act if needed, and distributes funds through the Crisis and Resilience Fund and Local Welfare Provision. Bury council confirms no current fuel supply shortage or rationing plans but has Business Continuity Plans in place should the situation change, continuing to support residents with fuel and food grants. Manchester council maintains a dedicated cost-of-living support line and has strategically purchased gas and electricity needs in advance to mitigate market volatility, additionally relying on its electric vehicle fleet.

Oldham council is also prioritizing financial support through its Crisis and Resilience Fund for low-income households and has plans in place for fuel shortages, though details were not disclosed. Rochdale and Salford councils are continuing to provide cost of living support, with Salford specifically mentioning the Crisis and Resilience Fund from April 2026. Stockport council's focus remains on supporting residents with the wider impact of rising costs, including financial advice and targeted assistance.

Trafford council routinely undertakes emergency planning, proactively reviewing business contingency plans for potential fuel shortages, and has established advice hubs and a Money Advice Referral Tool. Tameside council would follow government guidance for any significant restrictions on fuel use, ensuring essential services run through robust business continuity plans and their Helping Hands campaign. Wigan council is also administering the Crisis and Resilience Fund from April 2026, alongside its long-running Here For You campaign to help residents access financial support and advice.

Amidst the price hikes, drivers can make savings by being selective about where they refuel, as prices vary considerably between stations. For instance, in Greater Manchester, Costco Wholesale in Oldham offered petrol at 145.9p per litre, which could save a driver of an average family car up to £14 compared to the most expensive stations.

As of recent reports, the cheapest places to fill up with petrol in Greater Manchester include: Costco Wholesale, The Broadway, Oldham (145.9p); Costco Wholesale, Barton Dock Road, Manchester (146.9p); Asda, Atherleigh Way, Leigh (148.7p); Asda, Harpurhey Shopping Centre, Manchester (148.9p); and Esso, Bolton Rd, Bury (148.9p).

For diesel car owners, the Costco Wholesale garage in Oldham also offered the cheapest standard diesel at 174.9p per litre, matched by Texaco Service Station, Salford. Other affordable diesel options include Costco Wholesale, Barton Dock Road, Manchester (177.9p); and several Tesco and Morrisons locations at 179.9p.

Overall, petrol car owners in Greater Manchester are currently paying 1.6p less than the national average of 155.3p, and diesel drivers are paying 2.5p less than the national average of 187.4p. The cheapest petrol in the UK was found at a Tesco in Swansea at 140.9p, while the most expensive was a BP garage in Bolton at 186.9p.