As tensions in the Middle East continue, the Head of the International Energy Agency, Fatih Birol, said we are heading for “the largest energy crisis we have ever faced.”

It stems from the pinch-off of oil, gas and other vital supplies through the Strait of Hormuz.

In an interview with Associated Press, he warned that flight cancellations could begin “soon” if oil supplies remain blocked by the Iran war.

Now, Rhys Jones, a travel insurance expert at Go.Compare travel, has issued his own warning.

He explained: “The suggestion that jet fuel supplies could tighten in the coming weeks highlights how quickly travel plans can be disrupted by global events.

“Having suitable insurance in place as soon as you book can make a significant difference if circumstances change. 

“So, if you’re worried about your summer holiday being affected by the conflict, it’s not too late to get a policy in place and give you peace of mind.” 

Travel insurance provides far broader protection than just medical cover and lost belongings.

If you need to cancel a trip due to bereavement, a deterioration in health or similar circumstances, it can help mitigate the financial impact. 

And if external factors lead to cancellations or disruption to your holiday, it may help you recover some of the associated costs. 

For those with annual policies, Rhys also suggests checking that your policy covers your destination: “It’s easy to assume an annual policy covers every trip and country, but insurers typically group countries into regions, and higher-cost areas may require an upgraded level of cover. 

“Because of higher and more complex healthcare costs, some policies exclude destinations such as the USA, Canada or parts of the Caribbean unless additional cover is purchased.

“Taking the time to check could prevent costly surprises.”   

Other travel checks you should make:

• Length-of-stay limits, as many policies restrict individual trips to 30 or 45 days
• Whether winter sports or specialist activities are included, as these are often optional extras
• Cruise cover, which is usually required for sea-based holidays
• Policy details before departure, to avoid unexpected gaps in protection

And if the Strait of Hormuz isn’t reopened, Birol said that for Europe: “I can tell you soon we will hear the news that some of the flights from city A to city B might be cancelled as a result of a lack of jet fuel.

Where is going to be affected?

Birol said that for Europe: “I can tell you soon we will hear the news that some of the flights from city A to city B might be cancelled as a result of a lack of jet fuel.

“The countries that will suffer the most will not be those whose voices are heard a lot.

“It will be mainly the developing countries. Poorer countries in Asia, in Africa and in Latin America,” said the Turkish economist and energy expert who has led the IEA since 2015.

Are you worried about going on holiday? Let us know in the comments

This is according to Gloucestershire Live, which has given the spot that title in a new report published over the weekend.

Experts say the region has entered “a new era” as a prime property hotspot, thanks to its rising reputation.

Architect Alex Hancock, co‑founder of residential architecture and interior design practice Bloom Studio, said: “The Cotswolds is evolving.

READ MORE: Old Oxfordshire prep school with seven bedrooms for sale at £1.9m

“What we’re seeing is a new level of international buyer who values heritage but expects refinement.

“Our role is to preserve the architectural integrity of these buildings while quietly introducing the flow, material quality and technical performance that modern living demands.”

Bloom Studio says the Cotswolds is “no longer merely characterised by picturesque villages and weekend retreats” and is now recognised for “design, discretion, and a globally interconnected social scene”.

READ MORE: Music legend and wife have drink at Jeremy Clarkson’s Cotswolds pub

The firm said: “This new generation of buyers appreciates architectural integrity while also anticipating modern functionality: spatial flow, natural materials, refined detailing, and seamless project execution.”

According to Mr Hancock, demand is being fuelled by the global profile of venues such as Soho Farmhouse and Estelle Manor, along with the success of Jeremy Clarkson’s Amazon series Clarkson’s Farm.

He said these high‑profile destinations have helped draw in affluent international buyers, many of whom already own homes in cities such as London or overseas but want Cotswolds properties that blend “architectural authenticity with modern comfort”.

Police say two men were caught fighting with knives in Cherwell Avenue shortly before 9pm on Sunday, April 19.

Around an hour later, a man was found with “several” stab wounds in nearby Oxford Road through the town and was treated by paramedics, a spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said.

The alleged victim, aged in his 40s, was taken to hospital with “serious” injuries where he remains in bed in a stable condition.

Police cordon in Queens Avenue, Kidlington (Image: Alex Carter)

Police officers have since arrested two men from Kidlington, including a 24-year-old and a 52-year-old, on suspicion of assault. They remain in police custody, a spokesperson for the force said on Monday afternoon.

Kidlington East councillor Fiona Mawson said the incident is a “shocking and frightening” experience for people in the area and urged anybody with information to come forward.

Fiona Mawson (Image: Contributed)

The Green councillor said: “It sounds like a shocking and frightening experience for residents in the area.

READ MORE: Man named and charged after ‘police chase’ through Oxford

“My thoughts are obviously with the man who was injured and his family and I hope he will make a full recovery. I’m grateful to the swift response of TVP and of course NHS emergency staff.

“I’m glad the suspects are in custody and I’m sure residents will also be reassured that they have been caught.

“As someone who has lived in the area for 33 years, I know this is a highly unusual situation and there’s no reason to believe that the neighbourhood is at any increased risk.

Police cordon in Kidlington (Image: Alex Carter)

“I look forward to more details from TVP about the circumstances that led up to this incident and if any further action is required I will of course ensure it is taken.

“I would encourage any witnesses to make themselves known to the police as soon as possible.”

A police cordon was set up around a bungalow in Queens Avenue, just behind Cherwell Avenue, while detectives carried out enquiries.

Forensic officers were also spotted in a van gathering scientific evidence at the scene in Queens Avenue on Monday.

Thames Valley Police’s spokesman said: “There is no risk to the wider public as we believe all those involved in the incident are known to each other.

“However, there will be an increased police presence in the town today, as well as a scene on Queens Avenue, so please speak to a uniformed officer if you have any concerns.

“Any witnesses or anyone with information should contact us, quoting reference number 43260190844.

“Alternatively, people can report information to us anonymously through independent charity Crimestoppers.”