Vietnam is urging businesses to allow employees to work from home as the country faces fuel shortages and soaring prices linked to the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. The trade ministry said Vietnam has been heavily affected due to its reliance on energy imports from the Middle East and called for reduced travel to ease fuel consumption.

Fuel prices have climbed sharply, with gasoline rising 32 percent, diesel up 56 percent, and kerosene increasing 80 percent since late last month. Long lines have formed at petrol stations in Hanoi, prompting authorities to warn against hoarding and speculation. The government has also removed fuel import tariffs through the end of April and is seeking additional supplies from Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.

Global oil markets have been volatile following United States strikes on Iran, with crude prices briefly surging before retreating after assurances that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz would remain secure. Despite threats from Iran to restrict oil exports and strong rhetoric from Washington, investors are betting that the conflict may de-escalate before causing prolonged global economic damage.