Dhaka, March 20 -- European Union leaders called on Thursday for temporary measures to mitigate the impact of a surge in energy prices caused by the Iran war, with electricity tax cuts, lower grid fees and state support put forward as possible short-term fixes.

Europe's heavy reliance on energy imports has left it exposed to spiralling prices since the Strait of Hormuz was effectively closed and Tehran started striking energy infrastructure in the Middle East.

A fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies normally passes through the narrow strait near Iran.

The price of benchmark Brent crude rose again on Thursday after Iran targeted energy facilities in Qatar and Saudi Arabia, and European gas prices were double their level...