middle east

The Dutch foreign ministry has outlined routes for citizens seeking to leave the West Bank amid ongoing uncertainty. Travellers are advised to leave via Jordan or, with restrictions, through Israel. Authorities warn of unpredictable security conditions and sudden disruptions.

The OECD says the war in the Middle East is creating major risks for global growth, though the full effects remain unclear. Rising energy prices could fuel inflation and pressure central banks to keep interest rates high. New forecasts from the ECB and the Federal Reserve may soon shed more light on the situation.

Tensions in the Middle East continued to influence financial markets on Friday. The AEX closed slightly higher as rising oil prices and takeover speculation around Besi trading. Meanwhile, companies warned that the conflict highlights Europe’s need for greater energy independence.

After an EU justice ministers’ meeting in Brussels, Justice Minister David van Weel warned the Netherlands is vigilant about likely Iranian cyberattacks that could target US and Israeli interests and possibly spread to other targets.

Dutch exporters are losing millions as conflict in the Middle East disrupts major shipping and flight corridors. Logistics experts warn that diverted cargo is causing a backlog at alternative ports, leaving containers stranded and driving up transport fees. Although everyday consumer goods remain stable for now, the crisis is severely impacting the delivery of vital medical supplies.

Global oil prices have continued to rise as conflict in the Middle East threatens the vital Strait of Hormuz shipping lane. While the United States prepares market interventions to stabilise costs, European motorists are already facing higher prices at the petrol pump. Experts warn that fuel costs could soon approach the record highs seen in 2022 if the regional instability persists.