UN, IEA Leaders Warn of Unprecedented Global Energy Crisis Amid Conflict and Rising Prices

UN, IEA Leaders Warn of Unprecedented Global Energy Crisis Amid Conflict and Rising Prices
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As the world faces a severe energy crisis, both UN Secretary-General António Guterres and International Energy Agency (IEA) chief Fatih Birol have called for urgent action to address the challenges exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, war, and climate risks.

Guterres, in a video message at the Petersberg Climate Dialogue in Berlin, warned that the conflict in the Middle East had triggered the “most severe energy crisis in a generation,” with fossil fuels not only damaging the planet but also holding economies hostage. He emphasized the need for a shift to renewable energy, noting that investments in clean energy reached $2.2 trillion in 2025, double the amount invested in fossil fuels. However, he stressed that the transition requires a fair approach, involving expanded energy infrastructure, increased financing, and support for developing countries, which face higher costs for clean energy transitions.

Meanwhile, Birol described the ongoing global energy turmoil as “the largest crisis in history.” In an interview with French radio, he pointed to disruptions in oil and gas supplies, particularly from Russia and the Middle East, as the root cause of soaring energy prices. The conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran has further disrupted global energy markets, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route for oil.