Petrol and diesel prices hit new highs as Iran war takes its toll

WorldBusiness & Finance
24 Mar 2026 • 12:22 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • The average price of unleaded petrol has increased by over 14p a litre since late February, reaching 147.19p, which adds £8 to the cost of filling a family car.
  • Diesel prices have hit a three-year high, rising by 29p to 171.17p a litre, making a full tank £16 more expensive than at the start of the Middle East conflict.
  • RAC warns that petrol prices are expected to surpass 150p a litre and diesel could reach 180p before Easter, marking the most expensive Easter for drivers since early 2022.
  • The rising fuel costs are attributed to the Middle East conflict, with oil consistently trading above $100 a barrel, impacting household budgets.
  • Concurrently, the number of available residential mortgage deals has decreased by nearly a fifth (19.5 per cent) in the past two weeks, as lenders adjust rates due to changing inflation forecasts influenced by global events.

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