Jersey officials have said the island is well prepared for any future supply shortages linked to the war involving Iran, stressing that resilience has improved significantly since the coronavirus pandemic. The deputy emergency planning officer said islanders should feel reassured that contingency planning and emergency readiness are now much stronger than before.

Concerns had been raised by a panel of backbench politicians and a retired brigadier, who urged leaders to conduct more emergency exercises and commission an external review of resilience planning. The former military strategist called for additional steps to strengthen preparedness around fuel, food, transport and critical infrastructure. However, the Chief Minister said the risks had been overstated and defended the island’s current level of readiness.

Jersey Electricity said the island could cope even if supply cables from France were disrupted, noting that multiple undersea connections and a local power station provide layered protection. The company added that fuel reserves at La Collette would allow electricity generation to continue for an extended period if needed.

Officials also highlighted ongoing emergency exercises and reviews of pandemic response lessons. A digital security specialist cautioned that global tensions could increase cyber security risks, urging organisations and individuals to remain vigilant and continue strengthening local cyber resilience.