The International Energy Agency's executive director has issued a stark warning: Europe could exhaust its jet fuel supplies in as little as six weeks if the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz persists.

Fatih Birol shared this assessment in an Associated Press interview, highlighting the severe risks from the ongoing disruptions in the Iran conflict. The Strait, a critical chokepoint for global oil and gas flows, remains closed, triggering what Birol described as "the largest energy crisis we have ever faced." Without resolution, flight cancellations across European routes could begin soon, he cautioned.

Birol outlined widespread economic fallout, including spikes in petrol, natural gas, and electricity costs. The crisis threatens to curb global growth and fuel inflation, with prolonged closure amplifying the damage. He likened the situation to a "dire strait," far beyond the 1980s band name.

Asia bears the initial brunt, with heavy reliance on Middle Eastern energy hitting nations like Japan, South Korea, India, China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh hardest. Europe and the Americas face secondary waves of shortages.

This alert builds on Birol's earlier comments last month, when he predicted April shortages doubling March's oil losses, alongside LNG constraints. He foresaw potential energy rationing in vulnerable economies.

Analysts have voiced similar alarms. Rystad Energy's chief economist Claudio Galimberti noted that airline impacts hinge on Hormuz flows. ING's senior economist Rico Luman pointed to halted Middle Eastern vessels, forcing a scramble for alternative supplies.

The blockade stems from collapsed U.S.-Iran talks over nuclear demands, as reported in recent updates. While strategic reserves offer some buffer, Birol emphasized the urgency for diplomatic breakthroughs to avert broader disruptions.