How the world is preparing for a potential fuel crisis (2 photos)
As US and Israeli hostilities against Iran and its allies continue, passage through the Strait of Hormuz, which supplies approximately 20% of the world's crude oil and natural gas, remains restricted. As a result, countries dependent on Middle Eastern supplies are forced to take various measures to reduce consumption of significantly more expensive oil, both at the government and private levels. 
China, the world's largest oil buyer, has built up massive reserves of this strategic commodity in advance. According to some estimates, 900 million barrels, or approximately three months' worth of imports, according to BBC reports. India, equally dependent on foreign crude, reassured its businessmen that oil shipments are guaranteed for two months. No restrictions on this matter are foreseen for its own citizens. At least for now.
The situation is different in countries that cannot boast vast oil reserves or supply diversification. In the Philippines, which imports 98% of its oil from Gulf countries, the cost of diesel and gasoline has more than doubled, and government employees have been required to travel four days a week.
Some countries have resorted to rationing fuel and electricity, as fuel oil is needed for its generation. For example, in Sri Lanka, drivers are allowed to consume no more than 15 liters of gasoline per week, and motorcyclists are limited to 5 liters. In Egypt, shops, restaurants, and cafes have been ordered to close at 9:00 PM every night for the next month. In turn, in Myanmar, private cars are now only allowed to drive every other day, depending on whether their license plates are odd or even, although this does not apply to electric vehicles.
However, in some places, unexpected benefits have emerged for the public. In two Australian states, Victoria and Tasmania, public transport has become free to encourage people to avoid driving. 
