IEA Unveils 10-Point Plan to Slash Oil Demand Amid Middle East Crisis
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has unveiled a 10-point plan to reduce oil demand as the Middle East conflict continues to disrupt global energy markets. With oil prices still high despite a record release of emergency reserves, the agency is pushing for immediate action to ease pressure on supplies and stabilise costs.
The measures come after the IEA approved the largest-ever release of strategic oil reserves in mid-March, yet prices remain volatile due to an 8% global supply shortfall.
On March 11, 2026, the IEA authorised the release of 400 million barrels from emergency stockpiles to counter soaring prices caused by the Middle East war and a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. Shipments began in late March from Asia/Oceania and Europe/America, but by March 20, the impact on prices was still unclear. The disruption has cut global supply by 8 million barrels per day, keeping costs elevated.
To further reduce demand, the IEA's plan includes expanding remote work to cut commuting fuel use. Alternate-day driving schemes in major cities could also ease congestion and lower consumption. Lowering highway speed limits by at least 10 km/h (6 mph) is another proposed step to improve fuel efficiency.
The agency also recommends carpooling, adopting smoother driving techniques, and phasing out liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for vehicles. Businesses are urged to reduce non-essential flights to relieve pressure on aviation fuel. Switching to electric cooking where possible and optimising hydrocarbon use in industry are additional measures to shrink oil dependence.
Despite these efforts, the IEA has warned that without a quick end to the conflict, energy markets and the wider economy will face growing strain.
The IEA's emergency oil release and demand-cutting measures aim to stabilise markets amid an 8% global supply gap. If the conflict persists, however, the long-term impact on prices and economic stability remains uncertain. The agency's plan now relies on widespread adoption of its proposals to ease pressure on fuel supplies.
