Japan's Energy Security Amid the Iran Conflict

Japan's energy security has come under significant strain due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly the war involving Iran. The nation, which relies on the Middle East for over 95% of its crude oil, has faced an acute energy crisis as the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for oil, was effectively shut down. This situation has led to the highest domestic oil prices in Japan since 2008 and prompted the government to initiate the largest strategic reserve release in its history. Analysts, including Parul Bakshi from The Oxford Institute for Energy Studies, emphasize that this geopolitical shock has highlighted the structural vulnerabilities in Japan's energy strategy.

South China Morning PostThe GuardianChina Daily

In response to the energy crisis, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced plans to release an additional 20 days' worth of oil reserves starting in early May 2026. This follows a previous release of 50 days' worth of reserves in March, marking Japan's largest-ever strategic reserve deployment. Takaichi stated that the government aims to ensure a stable supply of crude oil amid ongoing uncertainties regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Japan's reserves, sufficient for 230 days, are primarily state-owned, with the government prioritizing sales to essential sectors such as healthcare and transportation.

The GuardianChina DailySouth China Morning Post

As Japan grapples with its energy dependency, Takaichi indicated efforts to secure oil from alternative sources that do not rely on the Strait of Hormuz. Potential new supply routes include Yanbu in Saudi Arabia and the Port of Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates. The government has also reached out to suppliers in the United States, Malaysia, and various countries across Central Asia, Latin America, and Africa. However, the ongoing conflict has intensified domestic pressure on Takaichi's administration to resist U.S. calls for military involvement, with over 30,000 demonstrators rallying against potential constitutional reforms that could allow for such actions.

The Guardian

The response to Takaichi's handling of the crisis has not been without dissent. Critics have expressed concerns over her administration's alignment with U.S. military strategies, particularly following a request from former President Donald Trump for Japan to send Maritime Self-Defense Forces to the Strait of Hormuz. Takaichi declined this request, citing constitutional restrictions against military involvement in international conflicts. Public protests have surged, with demonstrators advocating for adherence to Article 9 of Japan's constitution, which renounces war.

The Guardian

While Japan's government has outlined its plans to secure oil supplies and manage reserves, there remains uncertainty regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the effectiveness of alternative supply routes. The situation is fluid, with ongoing discussions about the potential for military involvement and the implications of U.S. pressure on Japan's foreign policy.

China Daily

• “This latest geopolitical shock once again highlights the structural tension in Japan’s energy strategy,” — Parul Bakshi, Visiting Research Fellow, The Oxford Institute for Energy Studies.

South China Morning Post

• “To ensure the stable supply of crude oil, we will release starting in early May the equivalent of roughly 20 days’ worth [of oil] from the national reserves,” — Sanae Takaichi, Prime Minister of Japan.

The Guardian

• “we will take every possible measure to ensure a stable supply of crude oil.” — Sanae Takaichi, Prime Minister of Japan.

China Daily