Pakistan Announces Austerity Measures Amid Oil Crisis from US-Israel Conflict with Iran
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced wartime austerity measures on Monday night in response to a severe oil crisis triggered by the US-Israel war against Iran.
According to the Pakistani newspaper Dawn, Sharif ordered government offices to operate four days a week for an indefinite period. Schools and colleges will close for two weeks to reduce energy consumption. At least 50 percent of employees in public and private companies must work from home, while universities and higher education institutions shift to online learning.
The government directed a 50 percent reduction in fuel use for official vehicles for the next two months. Salaries for members of parliament will be cut by 25 percent.
Sharif condemned the US-Israel war against Iran and expressed concern over civilian casualties in the Middle East.
Disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz have driven global crude oil prices above $100 per barrel. Pakistan, reliant on imported energy and remittances from Gulf workers, faces heightened vulnerability to oil price spikes and regional instability.
Analysts indicate the school closures and broader measures may disrupt daily life for millions as the government addresses the economic impact.
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