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Tue, 19 May 2026

Tue, 19 May 2026 Petrol hits highest price since start of Iran war

The average price of unleaded has risen to 158.52p a litre, according to the RAC, who warn that it could rise further in the coming weeks.

* Average price of unleaded petrol has risen to 158.52p per litre, its highest level since the Iran war.
* Petrol prices surged at start of conflict in February and had peaked at 158.31p on April 15 before falling slightly.
* Prices have been rising again and are expected to reach at least 160p per litre unless there is a significant drop in oil price.
* Brent crude is currently trading at $111 a barrel, up from around $73 before the conflict.
* Diesel prices have also increased, with average price now 185.92p per litre compared to 142.38p at start of conflict.
* RAC says drivers are struggling with high fuel costs and urges retailers to reflect wholesale price savings on forecourt.
* Treasury has said it does not comment on tax speculation, but Chancellor is reportedly considering scrapping plans to increase fuel duty by a penny in September.