"Vital to open Strait of Hormuz": Japan releases emergency oil reserves amid Iran conflict

According to the broadcaster, the volume of fuel currently being released corresponds to "15 days of consumption." Industry data indicates that "oil-related companies in Japan hold reserves equivalent to 70 days."

In addition to these private stocks, the Japanese government maintains an independent emergency reserve and is "expected to release one month of supply later in March." Currently, Japan's total emergency petroleum reserves account for 254 days of national demand, composed of national stockpiles, private sector reserves, and joint stockpiles with producing nations.

This move follows a broader international effort by the International Energy Agency (IEA), which announced that nations across Asia Oceania will release 108.6 million barrels of oil "immediately." IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol confirmed that "unprecedented additional volumes of oil" are being introduced to the global market to mitigate the crisis.

However, Birol cautioned that while the release will assist supply, "opening the Strait of Hormuz is vital for a return to stable flows" as the maritime route remains a critical bottleneck for global energy security.

Amidst these energy concerns, diplomatic efforts to secure the waterway have intensified. Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi held discussions with US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, reaffirming Tokyo's stance on the necessity of preserving peace and stability within the Strait of Hormuz.

During the conversation, Hegseth provided assurances that the conflict involving Iran would result in "no changes" to the deployment of American forces stationed in Japan. He also reiterated Washington's commitment to enhancing the "deterrence and response capabilities" of the bilateral alliance.

In response, Koizumi expressed Tokyo's firm intention to uphold "close communication" with the United States and other strategic partners. This exchange occurs as US President Donald Trump continues to press international allies to dispatch naval assets to ensure the Strait remains accessible for maritime traffic.

Despite the President's call for approximately seven nations to dispatch warships, several American allies have adopted a cautious stance. Australia has confirmed it will not provide naval support, with Cabinet Minister Catherine King stating, "We won't be sending a ship to the Strait of Hormuz."

Mirroring this sentiment, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated on Monday that Japan currently maintains no plans to deploy naval assets for escorting vessels. Addressing the Japanese parliament, Takaichi clarified that Tokyo has not yet committed to any military involvement. According to a report by Reuters, she noted that the government is still evaluating its options "within the legal framework."

While some have issued refusals, others remain in deliberation. South Korea indicated that any potential move would only occur after a "careful review," while in London, Prime Minister Keir Starmer held talks with Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to coordinate a response to "global shipping disruptions."

The push for international intervention was detailed by President Trump aboard Air Force One, where he argued that nations dependent on Middle Eastern crude should assist in policing the waterway to protect "their own territory."

He specifically highlighted China as a major stakeholder securing the majority of its oil through Hormuz, though he did not confirm their participation in a coalition. Despite these appeals, no concrete military commitments have been secured as global oil prices continue to rise. (ANI)