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Milestone·Modern

OPEC Oil Embargo

Date
17 October 1973 CE1393 AH53 years ago
Place
Arab oil-producing states
People
King Faisal, Ahmed Zaki Yamani

In October 1973 CE, during the Yom Kippur War, Arab oil-producing states acting through OAPEC cut exports to countries that supported Israel. Saudi Arabia was among the leading producers involved. The embargo lasted until March 1974. Oil prices rose roughly fourfold, and Western economies suffered inflation and shortages. Some Arab states used the embargo to pressure the United States over its policy on Israel.

Why it matters

The embargo showed the power of oil producers and led Western countries to build strategic reserves and new energy policies.

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