Rising costs across the continent intensify economic pressure as public opposition to the conflict grows.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Gasoline prices across Europe have climbed sharply, with some countries now exceeding $10 per gallon, as disruptions linked to the Iran conflict continue to ripple through global energy markets.
Recent data highlighted by Euronews show that fuel costs across the European Union have reached some of their highest levels in years. On average, gasoline prices across the bloc are about €1.85 per liter—roughly $7.95 per gallon—according to figures compiled by Mappr.
Prices are notably higher in northern parts of Europe. The Netherlands currently records the highest average within the 27-member bloc at approximately $10.10 per gallon, while other regions in Scandinavia have also crossed the $10 threshold. In contrast, Malta remains the only EU country with average prices below $6 per gallon, at roughly $5.93.
Although prices have eased slightly from mid-April peaks, they remain about 20% higher than levels recorded in February, before the escalation of the Iran conflict. Across Europe, fuel costs are now roughly double the average price seen in the United States, marking the highest levels in many countries since 2022.
U.S. drivers have also experienced increases, with average gasoline prices rising from around $2.70 per gallon to more than $4.00, representing a jump of over 50%.
Energy analysts point to taxation as a key factor behind the price gap between Europe and the United States. Javier Noriega, chief economist emeritus at Hildebrandt and Ferrar investments, said the base cost of oil remains relatively consistent across markets, but taxes significantly inflate retail prices in Europe.
“The price of a barrel of oil is more or less the same in every market,” Noriega said. “The difference is the high taxes that European countries place on fuel. The taxes make up the bulk of the price.”
He added that in countries like Italy, less than half of the per-liter price reflects the cost of the fuel itself, with the remainder attributed to taxes. When those taxes are excluded, the underlying fuel price aligns more closely with U.S. levels.
Data from the U.S. Oil & Gas Association indicate that European consumers pay an average of about $4.50 per gallon in fuel taxes, compared to roughly $0.50 to $0.60 per gallon in the United States, depending on the state.
Despite the structural differences, rising fuel costs have placed increasing strain on European households and businesses. Public sentiment has also shifted in response to the economic impact. Polling cited by Euronews shows that majorities in countries including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom oppose the conflict and express concern over its long-term consequences.
Analysts say continued instability in energy supply routes and geopolitical tensions could keep prices elevated in the near term, with broader economic implications across the region.
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