Story perspectives

U.S. SPR Hits 1983 Low, 172 M Barrels Set for Release

7/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Department of Energy said SPR crude oil fell to 311.4 million barrels, the lowest since March 1983.
The drawdown supports a U.S. plan to release 172 million barrels from the reserve.
Since the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran began in February, SPR inventories have dropped 104.04 million barrels as of July 17.
IEA members, including the United States, agreed to release about 400 million barrels, with the United States planning an SPR replenishment in 2027.

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Story summary

The U.S. Department of Energy said SPR crude oil fell to 311.4 million barrels, the lowest since March 1983.
The drawdown supports a U.S. plan to release 172 million barrels from the reserve.
Since the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran began in February, SPR inventories have dropped 104.04 million barrels as of July 17.
IEA members, including the United States, agreed to release about 400 million barrels, with the United States planning an SPR replenishment in 2027.