The war in Iran has sparked an energy crisis that is significantly impacting poorer countries in Asia. Many of these nations rely heavily on energy supplies from the Persian Gulf, with approximately 80% of oil and oil products traveling to Asia through the Strait of Hormuz. Furthermore, nearly 90% of liquefied natural gas (LNG) that reaches Asia passes through this strategic waterway. As tensions rise, Iran has begun to restrict or block maritime traffic in the Strait, which poses a significant threat to energy supplies and prices in the region.

In addition to the disruptions in transportation through the Strait of Hormuz, ongoing bombings of gas fields shared by Iran and Qatar are further escalating energy prices, creating a precarious situation for countries heavily reliant on these resources. To cope with the growing energy crisis, various measures are being implemented across different Asian countries, ranging from mandatory holidays to restrictions on automobile use. These initiatives aim to conserve energy in light of the potential shortages and high prices that may result from the conflict.

In Bangladesh, for instance, the end of Ramadan typically marks a national week-long holiday for public sector workers. However, in an effort to save electricity, students were sent home from universities as early as March 9, indicating the urgency and severity of the energy situation. Such measures reflect the broader implications of the Iranian conflict, as countries scramble to ensure energy security and mitigate the effects of rising costs on their populations.