Fuel shortage causes long vehicle queues in Basra and Nasiriyah

BASRA, Iraq — A gasoline shortage disrupted fuel supplies in the southern Iraqi cities of Basra and Nasiriyah on Friday, prompting long queues at petrol stations across both urban areas. Drivers waited for hours to fill their tanks as distribution faltered and stations were unable to meet demand. Residents in surrounding districts of Nasiriyah, the capital of Dhi Qar province, reported similar shortages, with queues stretching along main roads. Local accounts said the disruption affected daily commutes and transport in the region, though no official explanation has been issued for the sudden drop in supply. Iraq has experienced recurring fuel distribution problems, often tied to refinery output, import logistics and seasonal demand spikes. The Oil Ministry has not commented on the latest shortages, and it remained unclear when normal distribution would resume.