France Eases Diesel Standards as Iran Conflict Strains Supply

(MENAFN) Amid mounting supply strain tied to the ongoing conflict involving Iran and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, France has approved the temporary sale of diesel fuel that does not fully comply with usual regulatory standards.

According to an official decree published Thursday, the adjustment allows the cold filter plugging point to rise from minus 15°C (5°F) to 0°C (32°F), meaning the fuel could become ineffective in freezing conditions.

As stated by reports, motorists will bear responsibility for any engine or filter damage resulting from the change, while fuel distributors are required to notify customers about the modified specifications.

Other technical criteria—such as cetane levels, sulfur content, and overall fuel purity—remain unaffected.

The move follows a rapid surge in diesel prices, which climbed from about €1.7 per liter (roughly $1.97) in late February to nearly €2.2 (around $2.56) by the end of March, marking an increase of close to 30% in under a month.

The broader escalation in the Middle East has persisted since the United States and Israel launched a joint offensive against Iran on Feb. 28, which has reportedly resulted in over 1,340 fatalities, including then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Tehran has responded with repeated drone and missile attacks targeting Israel and Gulf nations hosting US military installations.

Meanwhile, traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has been significantly constrained since early March. With approximately 20 million barrels of oil typically passing through the route each day, the disruption has driven up shipping costs and contributed to rising global oil prices, according to reports.

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