IEA Chief Advises Europe Against Renewed Russian Gas Use Amid Middle East Tensions

International Energy Agency Executive Director Fatih Birol cautioned against Europe returning to Russian gas amid the Middle East crisis, citing political sensitivities and increased global liquefied natural gas supplies. While the conflict has disrupted energy infrastructure and shipping routes, causing price surges and logistical challenges, Birol noted that global oil production capacity remains sufficient. European Union leaders are considering measures like tax cuts and state aid to address soaring energy costs, but no coordinated oil stock release is planned.