Home heating oil prices in Northern Ireland increased by up to £100 over the past week. The rise followed US and Israeli strikes on Iran and Iranian counterattacks that damaged oil and gas facilities in Gulf states. Some 62.5% of homes in the region use heating oil.

First Minister Michelle O'Neill said residents face direct effects from the Middle East conflict, including higher costs for oil and petrol. She stated families struggle to afford fuel amid people rushing to stock up.

O'Neill called on oil companies to stop gaining profits from residents. She noted regulation faces complications due to efforts to reduce fossil fuel reliance but said regulation should occur where feasible.

Hundreds of Northern Ireland residents remain stranded in the Middle East since last Saturday. Airspace closures from the Iran-US-Israel conflict disrupted flights.

O'Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly receive twice-daily briefings via the Executive Office. They maintain ongoing contact with British and Irish governments to arrange returns, including flights to Dublin and London.

O'Neill said she and Little-Pengelly spoke with families of those stranded. Some returned on a flight to Dublin, with another expected to London.

Opposition parties criticised O'Neill and Little-Pengelly for skipping Cabinet Office briefings on Iran and not releasing a joint statement.

O'Neill explained she skips the briefings to avoid endorsing London's part in the conflict. She said the Executive briefings provide all needed information on repatriation.

O'Neill stated Sinn Fein and DUP differ sharply on international law and the conflict. She prioritises diplomacy and peace. Both parties cooperate on repatriating residents and humanitarian aid.