AU Warns Gulf Tensions Threaten Global Trade Energy Markets

The African Union has expressed concern over escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf, warning that attacks on critical infrastructure could disrupt global trade routes, energy markets and African economies.

In a statement issued on Monday from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, said the commission was closely monitoring developments in the Gulf region.

“The AUC Chairperson expresses deep concern over recent attacks on critical infrastructure, including energy and transport facilities, which have further heightened tensions and are threatening regional and global economic stability,” the statement said.

Youssouf warned that disruptions in the Gulf were affecting international supply chains, global trade and energy markets, with direct consequences for African economies.

“Rising oil prices and disruptions in trade routes are already affecting markets, including the export of perishables from Africa, while disruptions to airspace are impacting African airlines and travel connectivity,” the statement added.

The African Union’s warning comes amid an escalating conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States, which has intensified across the Gulf region.

The latest phase of the conflict began in late February 2026 when large-scale airstrikes targeted Iranian military and nuclear-linked infrastructure, triggering retaliatory missile and drone attacks across the region.

Within days, the conflict had spread beyond Iran and Israel, with attacks reported on energy facilities, ports and transport infrastructure in several Gulf countries.

According to reports, repeated strikes have damaged oil and transport infrastructure in parts of the Gulf region, raising fears of disruptions to global energy supply.

The Gulf region is critical to the global economy. The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow shipping corridor between Iran and Oman, handles about 20% of the world’s oil supply, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Any prolonged disruption in the area could affect fuel prices, shipping routes and supply chains worldwide.

Energy analysts cited by Reuters say oil prices have already risen sharply since the start of the conflict due to fears of supply disruptions.

Impact on Africa

The African Union Commission said the instability could have significant consequences for African countries that rely heavily on imported fuel and international trade routes.

The organisation also warned that disruptions to airspace in the Gulf region were already affecting airline routes connecting Africa with Asia and Europe.

Youssouf urged all parties involved to exercise restraint and prioritise diplomacy.

“The AUC Chairperson condemns any violation of international law, including infringements on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, and calls on all parties concerned to exercise maximum restraint, prioritise dialogue and diplomacy, and work towards a swift de-escalation of the situation,” the statement said.

The commission also called for the protection of civilians and urged governments to ensure safe passage for foreign nationals, including Africans living and working in the Middle East.

The African Union Commission said it would continue monitoring developments and their potential implications for African nations and diaspora communities across the Gulf region, including those residing in Iran and countries belonging to the Gulf Cooperation Council.