President John Dramani Mahama has raised concerns over escalating hostilities involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, warning that the growing conflict in the Middle East could have serious economic consequences for Africa.
Speaking during a bilateral meeting with Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the State House in Arusha on March 2, 2026, President Mahama described the region as the “epicentre of global oil supplies” and cautioned that African economies must brace for inevitable shocks.
He expressed alarm over the intensifying exchanges between the U.S., Israel, and Iran, as well as reported counter-attacks affecting parts of the Gulf.
According to him, rising crude oil prices triggered by the tensions would directly impact African countries, many of which rely heavily on imported petroleum products.
The current escalation follows months of heightened tensions between Israel and Iran, largely centred on Iran’s nuclear programme and its alleged support for armed groups in the region.
The United States, a longstanding ally of Israel, has backed Israeli security operations and increased its military posture in the Gulf, citing concerns over regional stability and threats to international shipping routes.
Iran, in turn, has accused both Israel and the United States of aggression and responded with missile and drone operations targeting strategic interests in the region.
The situation has raised fears of a broader regional war, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz — a critical shipping corridor through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes.
Global crude oil prices have already shown upward movement amid the uncertainty, with analysts warning that any prolonged disruption could further strain energy-importing nations, including many in Africa.
Source: Citi Newsroom
