BVI not prepared for global instability from US-Iran war

Host of the Honestly Speaking radio programme, Claude Skelton Cline, is warning that the BVI is dangerously unprepared for the fallout of the budding war between the United States and Iran, arguing that global instability could quickly trigger fuel and food shortages in the territory.

Speaking during last week’s broadcast, Skelton Cline said escalating tensions in the Middle East should not be viewed as distant events with no local consequences. His comments come as the US continues airstrike activity in Iran following months of tensions with the Middle Eastern country since President Donald Trump assumed office.

Against that backdrop, Skelton Cline said the BVI’s heavy reliance on imports makes it particularly vulnerable. “Two key things are important during global crises — fuel and food, and by food, water is included,” he said. “Our leadership, political and corporate, ought to be preparing this country for the impact…we ought to be preparing for what’s getting ready to happen.”

Fuel reserves under scrutiny

Skelton Cline claimed the territory lacks adequate fuel reserves and must replenish supplies frequently.

“Do you know that we don’t have any real storage of fuel in this country? Every three weeks, according to the data coming to me, we go through the process of needing fuel,” he said. “At some point in the not-too-distant future, the supply chain in regards to fuel is going to snap. We have no reserve.”

The BVI depends almost entirely on imported petroleum products to generate electricity and power transportation. The BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) relies primarily on diesel generation, meaning any disruption in shipments could have immediate consequences for electricity production.

“If a country don’t have no energy, how are we going to function? No power. No electricity, no lights. No ability to protect and preserve things,” he argued. “Where’s the plan? What have we commissioned BVIEC to do — not just with lip service, but through funding?”

While there is no current indication of imminent supply cutoffs in the region, global energy markets have historically reacted sharply to instability in oil-producing regions, often resulting in price spikes that disproportionately affect small, import-dependent economies.

Food security and social stability

Beyond fuel, Skelton Cline warned of the social consequences of food shortages in a territory that imports most of its food.

“You want to see people go crazy? You want to see crime and robbery increase? Let there be a food shortage in this country,” he said. “Where is our food security plan? Where are our grocers being engaged? What are we stockpiling?”

The BVI has previously discussed strengthening local agriculture and improving food security, particularly after supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Skelton Cline argued that discussion alone is insufficient.

“You better come out of that committee stage with a plan for this country that can be funded, take it to the House of Assembly so that this country can be properly informed as to what the protocols are for any eventuality,” he said.