Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to the US, Sir Ronald Sanders, has warned that escalating conflict between Iran and Israel could drive up oil prices and shipping costs, with serious consequences for small economies like those in the Caribbean.

Speaking in the wake of US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, Sanders said countries globally — especially small island states — must be alert to the economic fallout.

“Oil prices are already rising,” he said. “If tensions continue, the cost of energy, tourism, and even basic services like water delivery will be affected because they all rely on electricity.”

He likened the potential impact to the COVID-19 pandemic, when global supply chains were disrupted and shipping container prices surged.

“Conflicts like these are not distant. They affect us all,” he added, urging nations to speak out in support of peace.

The warning comes after President Donald Trump announced strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities. Iran vowed to retaliate, while European and Gulf leaders called for restraint to avoid further destabilisation in the region.

Iran says over 400 people have been killed in Israeli attacks, while 24 Israelis have reportedly died in Iranian strikes.