Syrians have taken to the streets to protest the sudden rise in fuel prices across the country. Several protesters on Monday decried the Syrian government’s decision to raise fuel prices by up to 40 per cent.

Videos of the protests showed many protesters blocking roads in Syria’s major cities, including Damascus, Hama, Khan Sheikhoun, Maarat Al Numanas and others, while demanding the resignation of Energy Minister Mohammed Al Bashir.

Many protesters were shouting, “We will not accept humiliation or indignity.”

Others demanded higher wages to match rising fuel prices nationwide. The development followed the government’s announcement of new fuel prices on Saturday.

The government said the temporary increases were necessary because global fuel costs rose due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and other shipping routes, as well as higher transport and insurance costs driven by the US-Iran war.

“The increase was needed to bridge a temporary gap between the cost of securing petroleum products and their domestic selling prices,” Mr Al Bashir stated.

He clarified that Syria produces about 102,000 barrels of oil per day, adding that it requires about 325,000 bpd for domestic consumption, leaving the country reliant on imports to cover the shortfall.

Meanwhile, Mr Al Bashir is expected to appear before Syria’s People’s Assembly members after they signed a request on Sunday demanding the reason for the price hikes and their impact on living conditions.