Petrol prices have doubled in the city from around $0.60 to $1.25 since the United States and Israel launched air strikes on Iran on February 28.

Like many oil-importing countries, Somalia is feeling the effects of surging global oil prices as Iran's retaliatory strikes have targeted its Gulf neighbours and shipping through the vital Strait of Hormuz.

"The federal government must intervene in this matter. We are facing livelihood problems as the prices of fuel are increasing every day," Ali Yare, one of the tuk-tuk drivers, told AFP.

"The merchants are increasing the prices to take advantage of the conflict in the Middle East, and they have no regard for others' predicament," he added.

The drivers blocked Maka Al-Mukarama Road, which leads to the presidential palace.

"We are not opening the road until our complaints are addressed by the government. The price increase is unacceptable," added another driver, Yusuf Bare.

Many fear that if the war continues, prices for many daily items will surge.

"The increased price of the fuel is already affecting the economy, and people have started complaining," said Mohamed Cagey, a Mogadishu shopkeeper.

"The drivers of public transport like tuk-tuks are protesting today, but if the Iran war continues, the prices of other basic commodities will also surge, and the rest of the public will join the protest."