Energy Expert Calls for Global Refinery Expansion Amid Middle East Conflict

OPA WIRE, Oct 29 (OPA) — Energy analyst Osama Rizvi warned on Thursday that elevated fuel prices have solidified into a structural market feature. He stated that supply chains remain fragile, with recovery likely to take months as the conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt global energy flows.

The European Commission has identified the loss of refining capacity as a critical security vulnerability. Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen described the current geopolitical climate as a wake-up call, urging member states to prioritize the expansion of domestic refining infrastructure to ensure long-term energy security.

Rizvi advocates for a global refinery revolution to decentralize production. By spreading refining assets across more geographic regions, he argues that the global market can reduce its susceptibility to localized geopolitical crises that currently threaten to choke supply lines.

While the push for increased capacity gains momentum, the transition faces significant logistical and regulatory hurdles. Analysts remain cautious regarding the timeline for such infrastructure projects, noting that current market volatility is expected to persist throughout the remainder of 2026.