Australia: Australia has decided to halve its fuel tax as the Middle East conflict impacts global energy supplies, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese calling for 'de-escalation.'

According to Anadolu Agency, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced in a post on US social media company X that the fuel tax would be halved for three months to help Australians save money on petrol and diesel. He noted that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East is driving up domestic prices, pressuring Australian consumers.

Albanese stated that the government aims to make every litre of petrol and diesel cheaper through June 30 and is implementing measures to combat petrol price gouging with significant fines. He expressed concerns about global uncertainties and emphasized the need for the US to provide clarity on its war objectives in Iran.

The Australian premier urged the US administration to clarify if regime change remains a strategic goal and emphasized that de-escalation is vital for the global economy. He highlighted that efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon have been successful, and Iran's position has been significantly weakened.

As the US-Israeli conflict with Iran continues into its second month, straining global energy supplies, Australia has been proactive in releasing oil from its strategic reserves. It also requested emergency fuel reserves from the US for the first time in decades.

In response to rising domestic prices, the Australian states of Victoria and Tasmania announced free public transport services to alleviate the burden on residents. The regional conflict has led to significant casualties and infrastructure damage, with Tehran retaliating against US military assets and disrupting global markets and aviation.