The war in the Middle East deeply impacts the lives of people across the globe and South Africa is no exception.
Millions of people woke up to the breaking news on their screens, that the United States of America and the State of Israel, launched airstrikes targeted at Iran’s military bases and nuclear-related-infrastructure, on February 28, 2026. The prospects of a war started brewing after negotiations between the U.S and Iran in early February hit a dead end.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed by attacks from Israel and the U.S, and the current death toll in Iran currently surpasses 1, 000. Iran has responded by launching missiles and drones towards Israel and targeting U.S military bases across the Middle East. The countries affected by the attacks from Iran include Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Kuwait.
But it was the confirmed closure of the Strait of Hormuz on March 2, that had an immediate global impact . According to Reuters, Iranian officials announced that the shipping corridor will be closed and any ship that attempts to pass through will be attacked.
Approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz, which means global oil prices, inflation, food and petrol prices are likely to increase significantly in the short term.
South Africa imports oil in large quantities, most of its crude oil supply coming from Nigeria and Saudi Arabia. This means that citizens will experience higher petrol prices and businesses will experience delayed goods from abroad. The impact was felt instantly as the minister of Mineral and Petroleum Gwede Mantashe announced an increase in fuel prices effective from March 4, as a result of the current international factors. The price of petrol increased by 20c and diesel by 65c, residents still await further changes as the war continues.
Behind the geopolitical strategies and missile attacks we watch from a distance are thousands of people whose lives have now been forever altered. Families are watching their homes and communities destroyed and those far removed from the shockwaves deal with rising costs and uncertainty.
As the situation unfolds, we are confronted with the fact that war is never limited to the countries fighting it, its impact is felt by everyone. We all mourn and feel the pain of those directly impacted.
Until the day global leaders choose dialogue and peace over destruction and violence, it will be us, ordinary citizens who continue to pay the price for their negligent and violent behaviour.
FEATURED IMAGE: Graphic depicting the joint allies the United States of America and the State of Israel, above Iran. Graphic by: Bonolo Mokonoto
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