ISTANBUL

France’s economy minister warned Tuesday that escalating tensions in the Middle East risk triggering a “new oil shock” that could weigh on the country’s economic growth if disruptions persist.

Roland Lescure told the National Assembly’s Finance Committee that interruptions in oil flows from Gulf countries to global markets are already having tangible effects.

“This situation constitutes a new oil shock,” he said, referring to supply disruptions linked to the regional conflict.

He cautioned about the effect on the broader economy.

“And if this energy shock persists beyond a few weeks, the crisis could spread more widely to the economy, and ultimately be of a more systemic nature,” he added.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions in the Mideast region between the US and Israeli strikes against Iran launched Feb. 28, which have killed more than 1,300 people, including then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iran has retaliated with repeated drone and missile strikes on Israel and Gulf states hosting US forces.

The Strait of Hormuz has been disrupted since early March, affecting roughly 20 million barrels of daily oil traffic and pushing global prices higher.

US President Donald Trump paused strikes Monday on Iranian energy infrastructure, citing "very good and productive" talks with Tehran, which Iranian officials denied had taken place.