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ISLAMABAD (AP) — Pakistan's government has extended fuel subsidies to over 9 million low-income individuals as the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict escalates energy costs, officials revealed on Tuesday.

Information Technology Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja explained that the initiative aims to alleviate financial burdens on millions of citizens amidst rising global fuel prices due to geopolitical tensions. This marks Pakistan's inaugural widespread implementation of technology-driven fuel subsidies.

The program, endorsed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif last month, grants fuel discounts to motorcycle riders, rickshaw operators, and owners of small cars who rely on their vehicles for work and daily commutes. These subsidies were introduced following an Islamist political party's threat to protest in Islamabad if the government failed to reduce petrol and diesel taxes.

Fuel prices in Pakistan have surged by over 50% since the war between the United States and Iran commenced earlier this year, exacerbating the financial strain on households already grappling with high inflation and soaring costs of living. Pakistan's government claims that these subsidies are meant to help low-income motorists purchase gasoline at pre-war prices.

Eligible motorists can receive fuel discounts via text message and present the tokens at participating gas stations, where staff will verify their eligibility before applying the discount. The amount and frequency of assistance differ based on vehicle type. Motorcycle and three-wheeler users receive a weekly discount of 500 rupees ($1.79), capped at four tokens per month, resulting in a monthly maximum of 2,000 rupees ($7.14).

Car owners with engines up to 800 cubic centimeters are eligible for a 100 rupees (36 cents) per liter discount on up to 10 liters of gasoline every 10 days, with a monthly limit of three tokens, saving up to 3,000 rupees ($10.71).