{
    "api": "1.1",
    "license": "CC BY 4.0",
    "attribution": "World Tension Meter — worldtensionmeter.com",
    "generated_utc": "2026-09-21 06:49:26",
    "index": "energy_security",
    "name": "Energy Security Index",
    "year": 2026,
    "months": [
        {
            "month": "2026-04",
            "avg": 31.6,
            "min": 23,
            "max": 46,
            "days": 27,
            "zone": "Calm",
            "story": "The Energy Security Index averaged 31.6 in April 2026, touching a low of 23 on April 14 before climbing to a peak of 46 on April 25. Tensions spiked early as crude oil prices hit records due to supply disruptions and jumpy markets, while fears grew over a U.S. blockade of Iran and potential escalations in the Strait of Hormuz. Later in the month, pressure eased temporarily when Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz open, causing U.S. oil prices to plunge below $84. However, uncertainty returned toward the end of April as reports emerged that President Trump was dissatisfied with Iran's proposal to open the strait, leaving oil hovering near $100.",
            "locked": true,
            "page": "https://worldtensionmeter.com/energy-security/history/2026/04/"
        },
        {
            "month": "2026-05",
            "avg": 34.8,
            "min": 18,
            "max": 44,
            "days": 31,
            "zone": "Calm",
            "story": "In May 2026, the Energy Security Index averaged 34.8, driven by several geopolitical developments. Early in the month, headlines focused on high gas prices and the war with Iran, pushing the index up to a peak of 44 on May 8. Further tensions arose throughout May as Ukrainian attacks targeted Russian oil refineries in Yaroslavl and Ryazan, and Iran vowed to retaliate against U.S. strikes. Calm returned late in the month as reports emerged that the U.S. and Iran appeared close to a deal to end the war and restore Hormuz shipping. Following these deal reports, the index dropped by 14 points, reaching a monthly low of 18 on May 27.",
            "locked": true,
            "page": "https://worldtensionmeter.com/energy-security/history/2026/05/"
        },
        {
            "month": "2026-06",
            "avg": 23.2,
            "min": 14,
            "max": 34,
            "days": 30,
            "zone": "Calm",
            "story": "Energy security tensions fluctuated throughout June 2026, averaging 23.2 for the month. Early concerns drove the index to a peak of 34 on June 12 as U.S. crude oil inventories continued to fall following the start of the war with Iran. Pressure eased significantly toward mid-month, reaching a low of 14 on June 24 on mounting hopes for a de-escalation in the U.S.-Iran war. However, tension pushed back up near the end of the month after an attack halted shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, causing oil prices to jump.",
            "locked": true,
            "page": "https://worldtensionmeter.com/energy-security/history/2026/06/"
        },
        {
            "month": "2026-07",
            "avg": 25.8,
            "min": 13,
            "max": 42,
            "days": 31,
            "zone": "Calm",
            "story": "The Energy Security Index started July at its lowest point of 13 before tensions began to build up. Middle East conflicts drove the index higher, with oil prices rising due to US airstrikes, a reimposed US naval blockade on Iran, and Houthi blockade threats. Tensions pushed the index to a peak of 42 on July 24 following escalating risks around the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb, as well as the US revoking Iran oil sanctions waivers. Some relief was felt around July 20 when the index dropped by 12 points, but markets remained volatile after statements that the Iran ceasefire and deals were over. Overall, the month experienced significant market pressure and closed out with an average index level of 25.8.",
            "locked": true,
            "page": "https://worldtensionmeter.com/energy-security/history/2026/07/"
        },
        {
            "month": "2026-08",
            "avg": 30.2,
            "min": 17,
            "max": 38,
            "days": 31,
            "zone": "Calm",
            "story": "In August 2026, the Energy Security Index averaged 30.2, hitting a high of 38 on August 2 and a low of 17 on August 6. Energy tensions were pushed up by Ukrainian drone strikes on major Russian oil refineries and news that Iran ruled out an interim deal extension while threatening to escalate conflict. Concerns also grew as oil prices jumped after Iran published a restrictive draft plan for the Strait of Hormuz. Tension was calmed when Iran announced a revenue-sharing deal with Oman regarding the Strait of Hormuz, which left oil prices little changed. The month ended with markets also processing news that oil companies posted record profits amidst the ongoing Iran war disruptions.",
            "locked": true,
            "page": "https://worldtensionmeter.com/energy-security/history/2026/08/"
        },
        {
            "month": "2026-09",
            "avg": 43.1,
            "min": 31,
            "max": 50,
            "days": 21,
            "zone": "Stable",
            "story": "The Energy Security Index started the month at a low of 31 on September 1st. Tensions were pushed up as oil surged above $100 a barrel and gasoline prices jumped following new US and Iran attacks, bringing the index to a peak of 50 on September 14th. Attacks on Moscow and an oil refinery by Ukrainian drones and missiles also kept pressure on energy markets. On the other hand, the passage of US tariffs against Russian oil buyers helped calm the index, dropping it by 6 points, while investors weighed the chance of a Russia-Ukraine peace deal. The month ended with an overall average score of 43.1.",
            "locked": false,
            "page": "https://worldtensionmeter.com/energy-security/history/2026/09/"
        }
    ]
}