Fuel protests paralyze Ireland

The protests, sparked by soaring petrol and diesel costs linked to the Middle East conflict, have led to significant traffic chaos on the M50 and disruption to public services like Dublin Bus.

Gardaí have declared an 'exceptional event' as demonstrators vow to extend their actions into the weekend until a multimillion-euro financial package is unveiled.

Government ministers are meeting with industry representatives to find a solution, but tensions remain high following threats to deploy the army to clear blockades.

The National Emergency Coordination Group has urged the public to avoid panic buying as the impasse continues to strain the country's logistics.