Japan asks IEA to prepare another oil stock release as Hormuz closure strands ships, keeps markets on edge

CAIRO - 25 March 2026: Japan is pushing for another emergency release of oil stockpiles with the International Energy Agency, as Tokyo braces for a longer Middle East conflict and the continuing disruption to energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met Fatih Birol, the head of the IEA, and asked that preparations be made for an additional coordinated release of strategic oil reserves “in case the situation becomes prolonged,” according to Japanese and IEA remarks carried by international reporting.

The request comes after the IEA and its member countries already agreed earlier this month on a record coordinated release of 400 million barrels, a move designed to calm markets and cover for supply losses tied to the war and the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz.