The Federation of Trade Unions and Petroleum Users in Lebanon affirmed that “in light of the serious military developments taking place in the Arabian Gulf region, and the repercussions that may result from them on the movement of oil supplies and global markets, it is following these developments carefully and responsibly, given the direct repercussions they may have on energy importing countries, at the forefront of which is Lebanon.”
In a statement issued by it, the union explained that “the fuel import, storage and distribution sector in Lebanon is still operating normally, and that workers and employees in this vital sector continue to perform their tasks with efficiency and commitment,” considering that “the continuation of tensions in strategic sea lanes may lead to an increase in the cost of shipping and insurance, and the accompanying additional pressure on the local market.”
The Union also called on the official and concerned authorities to “take the necessary precautionary and proactive measures to enhance national energy security, ensure continuity of supplies, and protect economic and social stability, in a way that preserves the supreme national interest.”
He stressed “the necessity of preventing any monopolistic practices or attempts to exploit the current circumstances, whether by storing fuel with the aim of manipulating prices or obstructing distribution operations,” calling on the relevant regulatory authorities to “exercise the utmost degree of follow-up to ensure market transparency and regularity, in order to protect citizens and the national economy.”
The Union appealed to the relevant ministries, regulatory agencies, and fuel station owners to “be alert and not allow the filling of gasoline in gallons or any containers that are not designated and safe, because this poses a great danger to public safety, and because of the accidents and explosions it may cause, God forbid, in addition to its contribution to creating unsafe storage situations that affect the stability of the market.”
The Union concluded its statement by stressing that “workers and users of the petroleum sector in Lebanon will remain in a position of national responsibility, committed to their duty to maintain the continuity of the work of this vital sector, and to ensure its regularity despite all the challenges. The Union will continue to follow developments closely, and will remain a responsible voice and defender of the stability of the sector, the rights of its workers, and Lebanon’s energy security.”
