The war in Iran has triggered an unprecedented energy crisis across Asia, with supply chain disruptions spreading far beyond the Middle East. The conflict, which began on February 28, has caused sudden jolts of economic disruption that many countries are struggling to manage, with some comparing the breakdowns to the Covid pandemic.

Asia-Pacific nations face a perfect storm of challenges: soaring fuel costs, canceled flights, surging food prices, and manufacturing slowdowns. The region's heavy reliance on Middle Eastern energy imports, combined with deeply integrated supply chains, has made it particularly vulnerable. Even if peace is achieved soon, experts warn that months of economic pain lie ahead, with potential shortages pushing several countries toward unrest and recession.

Transportation has been especially hard hit, with air travel experiencing chaos as jet fuel prices nearly doubled. Major carriers including Qantas, AirAsia, and Cathay Pacific have slashed routes, while smaller airlines face insolvency. Manufacturing sectors from nickel processing to textile production are also experiencing cutbacks as energy-intensive industries struggle with shortages of natural gas, sulfur, and other critical inputs.