US-Iran tensions push Pakistan toward economic crisis, say Islamabad residents
Islamabad Ma, y 31
Growing tensions between the United States and Iran are fuelling fears of a fresh inflation crisis in Pakistan, with residents of Islamabad expressing deep concern over soaring fuel prices, rising living costs, and the worsening economic burden on ordinary citizens.
Several residents said the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has already begun affecting daily life in Pakistan. Many complained that inflation has reached unbearable levels, making it increasingly difficult for salaried workers and low-income families to meet basic expenses.
One resident said he had been forced to leave his car parked for over a month because he could no longer afford fuel, adding that even maintaining a motorcycle had become difficult.
"Our salaries remain the same, but prices keep increasing. Survival is becoming nearly impossible," he said.
Citizens linked the recent surge in inflation to disruptions in global energy markets caused by the US-Iran confrontation and tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil shipping route.
According to residents, petrol prices in Pakistan reportedly surged from around Rs 250 per litre to as high as Rs 450 before easing slightly to above Rs 400 per litre. Diesel prices have also witnessed similar increases, placing additional pressure on transportation and commodity costs.
Residents argued that higher fuel prices inevitably lead to increases in public transport fares, food prices, and other essential goods. Some claimed inflation had risen by as much as 300 per cent, leaving poor and middle-class households struggling to cope.
Several speakers argued that military actions and missile strikes undermine diplomatic efforts and prolong instability in the region. Residents also blamed the continued deadlock on geopolitical rivalries and alleged external interference in the peace process.
Calling for an immediate end to hostilities, Islamabad residents urged all parties to prioritise negotiations, stressing that peace is essential to stabilising fuel prices, controlling inflation, and preventing further hardship for millions of Pakistanis.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is tragic but predictable. When you align your foreign policy too closely with one side, you become vulnerable. Pakistan's economy was already fragile, and this US-Iran tension is like adding fuel to fire. India must learn from this and maintain balanced relations with all Middle Eastern powers.
Rs 450 per litre for petrol! 😱 That's nearly double what we pay in India. The poor in Pakistan must be suffering terribly. But honestly, their military establishment has brought this upon themselves by playing both sides. They need to focus on peace and economic stability instead of proxy conflicts.
It's heartbreaking to read about families struggling to afford basic necessities. While India and Pakistan have our differences, we share a common humanity. The US and Iran should remember that their geopolitical games have real human costs. Diplomacy and dialogue are the only way forward.
This is a wake-up call for all South Asian nations. We need to reduce our dependence on Middle Eastern oil and invest in renewable energy. India's push for solar and electric vehicles is the right path. Pakistan should also look at long-term solutions instead of just reacting to crises.
The common Pakistani citizen is paying for the mistakes of their leaders. 😞 Instead of focusing on development, Pakistan's establishment has wasted resources on military adventurism and terrorism. India's focus on economic growth and diplomatic engagement is showing better results. Peace benefits everyone.
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