Petroleum Price Increase a Result of Serious Regional Situation, Says PM’s Media Aide

Musharraf Zaidi, spokesperson for the prime minister on international media, has said that the recent increase in petroleum prices is one of the consequences of the serious regional situation.

In a statement, he said that economic challenges have intensified due to Israel’s attack on Iran and tensions affecting other friendly countries in the region.

Zaidi added that the rise in petroleum prices reflects the impact of these difficult circumstances. He also said that Shehbaz Sharif has directed urgent measures to conserve resources and enforce austerity in the public sector.

Earlier, the prime minister announced austerity measures due to the tense situation in the region. Under these steps, fuel supply for government vehicles will be reduced by **50 percent for the next two months**, with **ambulances and public transport buses exempted**.

The prime minister further stated that **60 percent of government vehicles will remain off the road** during this period. In addition, members of the federal cabinet—including ministers, advisers, and special assistants—have voluntarily decided to **forgo their salaries for two months**, while the salaries of members of parliament will be **reduced by 25 percent**.