Speaking on public broadcaster France 2, Bregeon pointed directly to events in the Middle East as the reason behind the increase at the pump. “These are obviously the consequences of what is happening in the Middle East. The French know this and I understand that it is very difficult for many of our fellow citizens,” she said, referring to fluctuations that are hard to anticipate.

She offered no forecast. “The trend as we speak is upward. I am not able to tell you what will happen in the coming days or weeks,” Bregeon said.

Support runs until the end of August

The government has put assistance in place for what Bregeon called “the most exposed sectors” and “the most vulnerable French citizens” to soften the blow of higher prices. That aid is still running, she said, and people who qualify can draw on it until the end of August.

Whether the measures will be extended beyond that date remains open. Asked about a possible extension, Bregeon said the government “will take stock by the end of August.”

Oil prices rebound since July

Oil prices have climbed back since the start of July. Renewed hostilities in the region reversed part of the drop that followed an interim agreement between the United States and Iran, a deal that had raised expectations of safer transit through the Strait of Hormuz and more regional energy supply reaching the market.

The latest escalation has also dimmed the prospect of fresh talks. Tehran is demanding that Washington first deliver on earlier commitments regarding shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and Iranian oil exports before negotiations resume.

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