The United Arab Emirates and Kuwait have begun cutting oil production due to a near-complete blockade of the Strait of Hormuz — the strategic waterway through which a significant share of global oil transit passes. Kuwait reduced production by approximately 100,000 barrels per day, citing Iranian threats to safe maritime passage.

The UAE is changing its export methods, managing the capacity of its offshore platforms and using alternative transport routes — primarily a pipeline with 1.5 million barrels per day capacity to the Fujairah port on the eastern coast, which bypasses the Strait of Hormuz. Land operations continue normally.

Supply disruptions are already pushing prices higher: crude oil in London reached nearly $93 per barrel — the highest level in over two years. Analysts warn of the risk of increased global inflation if the crisis continues.

Both countries have declared force majeure, and regional producers are implementing similar preventive measures. The situation is increasing pressure on global energy markets at a time when the world economy is absorbing the military shock of the conflict.