Reliant on imported fuel, Pacific islands appeal for help as oil prices surge

Samoa and Tonga raise supply concerns with foreign partners as businesses and residents in Papua New Guinea grapple with higher fuel prices amid the Iran war

The leaders of some Pacific countries have appealed for help with oil supplies while others urge against “panic buying” as the import-reliant nations grapple with fears over possible fuel shortages and escalating costs caused by war in the Middle East.

Oil prices have surged to nearly $110 a barrel after strikes against energy infrastructure in Iran and the Gulf states.