New attacks in Hormuz raise oil prices

On October 14, new attacks in the Strait of Hormuz caused the price of a barrel of oil to rise, amid tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia. The strait is a vital shipping route for global oil transportation, and disruptions there often lead to increased energy prices worldwide.

French motorists watch fuel prices closely

French motorists are concerned about potential increases in fuel prices, with diesel approaching 2.40 euros per liter. Every time the Middle East experiences unrest, French drivers watch fuel pumps anxiously, as oil price fluctuations directly affect their daily expenses.

Iran targets ships in Hormuz

On Wednesday, October 14, attacks in the Strait of Hormuz reignited this concern. Iran targeted two ships in this strategic maritime passage, crucial for the global transit of oil. Markets reacted immediately, pushing the Brent barrel above 107 dollars.

Oil and gas prices climb

The American West Texas Intermediate followed the trend, gaining about 0.5 percent and settling around 94.64 dollars per barrel. European gas prices have also reached their highest level in four years, with the European reference contract TTF trading just above 86 euros per megawatt-hour.

New tactics used by Iran

According to available information, Iran used new tactics to target two ships in the Strait of Hormuz. At the same time, the conflict between the Houthis and Saudi Arabia intensified. An attack targeted an Aramco vessel in the east of the kingdom. Riyadh reported a limited fire after this attack.

French fuel prices already high

In French stations, fuel prices are already very high, even before this new heat on crude oil. As of October 14, the price of diesel averages around 2.358 euros per liter. For SP95-E10, the national average reaches 2.168 euros per liter, SP98 is at 2.272 euros per liter.

Fuel price composition

To measure the possible impact, it is necessary to look at the mechanics of pump prices. On average, a little more than a third of the price of a liter corresponds to the refined product itself. The rest comes mainly from taxes, such as the TICPE and VAT, and distribution costs.

Past oil shocks and their effects

During the March 2026 shock, after the first strikes against Iran, the Brent had already surged. The increase had exceeded 30 percent, with a barrel at more than 100 dollars. In a ten-day period, the price of diesel in France had then risen by about 16 percent.

Current prices exceed past levels

Today, the average rates have already exceeded these March levels. If tensions in Hormuz and refining continue, additional cents could be added in the coming weeks. Tools exist to cushion the shock, at the international level as well as in France.

Government measures to ease impact

The G7 countries have decided to release up to 100 million barrels of strategic reserves over several months. The French government, in parallel, maintains an aid of 100 euros for large vehicle users, extended to 5.5 million people. However, for many, every new jump in the barrel price eventually translates into daily trade-offs.