Fuel Price Protests Disrupt Traffic in Belfast

Slow-moving tractors have caused significant traffic disruption on the Sydenham Bypass in Belfast as demonstrators protest rising energy bills.

The protests are linked to the surge in fuel prices driven by the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil shipping route.

Tractors were observed moving slowly in both directions near Belfast City Airport, leading to delays.

Police have advised motorists to allow extra time for their journeys due to the congestion.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt urged protesters not to block roads, emphasizing that such disruptions could threaten lives by impeding healthcare workers from reaching patients.

Meanwhile, similar protests in the Republic of Ireland have involved blocking fuel depots and motorways, causing fuel shortages at hundreds of petrol stations.

The protests come amid a sharp rise in fuel prices in Northern Ireland, with petrol prices increasing from 124.8p per litre in late February to 153.1p per litre recently, and diesel prices rising from 132.6p to 185.6p per litre.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has halted about 20% of the world's oil trade, exacerbating the situation.

Political leaders have responded to the crisis, with the first and deputy first ministers sending a joint letter to the UK Prime Minister calling for government intervention on rising costs.

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