Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), stated that the U.S.-Israel invasion of Iran has permanently changed the global fossil fuel industry. In an interview published by The Guardian on Friday, he said the conflict has eroded global confidence in fossil fuels and reduced demand, prompting countries to shift toward safer energy sources such as renewables and nuclear power.

Birol explained that governments are now reassessing their energy strategies, with growing interest in renewable and nuclear energy and a stronger move toward electrified systems. He warned that the crisis has caused irreversible damage to the global energy market, describing it as a permanent turning point. He also urged caution in approving new fossil fuel exploration and production projects.

Commenting on the UK’s plan to explore North Sea resources, Birol said it would not significantly alter Britain’s energy security or global oil and gas prices. He added that renewable energy holds vast potential, though rising oil and gas prices could push developing nations toward cheaper coal, even as solar power becomes increasingly competitive.