G7 nations prepare joint oil reserve release amid Middle East strife

G7 nations are preparing for a joint release of oil reserves amid escalating strife in the Middle East. If carried out, it would be the first such move in about four years since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

According to reports, G7 nations are readying for a coordinated release of strategic oil reserves in response to ongoing strife in the Middle East. Such an action, if executed, would mark the first joint effort of its kind in roughly four years, following Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Tensions involving the U.S., Iran, and Israel form the backdrop to these preparations. The move aims to stabilize energy markets amid global concerns over supply disruptions.

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Illustration depicting South Korea's stable oil and gas supplies despite Iran crisis and Strait of Hormuz risks.
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Iran crisis leaves Korea's oil and gas supplies stable

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Amid U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Korean government stated that oil and gas supplies remain stable for now. Emergency meetings confirmed reserves of several months' worth of oil and gas exceeding mandatory levels. However, preparations are underway for potential risks from the Strait of Hormuz closure, including alternative routes and support measures.

Following market volatility from initial reports of a potential release, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has unanimously agreed to draw down 400 million barrels of emergency oil reserves—its largest ever—to combat surging energy prices due to Middle East conflict disrupting the Strait of Hormuz. Executive Director Fatih Birol called the oil market challenges 'unprecedented,' with stability depending on resuming Hormuz transit after prices hit nearly $120 a barrel.

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The Japanese government is weighing the use of part of its national oil reserves due to supply disruptions from the Iran crisis. Kyodo News reported on Friday that the Strait of Hormuz is effectively closed, affecting imports. Officials plan to monitor the situation and possibly coordinate with other countries.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi expressed 'serious concern' over attacks on vessels around the Strait of Hormuz during an online G7 leaders' meeting, urging early de-escalation. Japan plans to lead in releasing oil reserves to avert an economic crisis through international coordination.

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As the US-Israel-Iran conflict surpasses its fourth day following initial strikes on February 28, Iran has blockaded the Strait of Hormuz and launched drone attacks on key Saudi and Qatari energy facilities. Growing European involvement and US commitments elsewhere raise concerns over prolonged hostilities harming American interests. De-escalation through negotiations is urgently needed.

Iran targeted energy infrastructure in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and the UAE on March 19, 2026, in retaliation for an Israeli strike on its South Pars gas field shared with Qatar. Brent crude prices soared past $115 per barrel, with European gas prices rising over 30%, amid disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Leaders including US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu traded statements on coordination and future actions.

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Following earlier diplomatic outreach, India is ramping up energy security efforts in the Gulf during a two-week ceasefire in the US-Israel-Iran conflict. Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri visits Qatar on April 9-10, and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar heads to the UAE on April 11-12, to secure oil and gas supplies and evaluate conflict impacts.

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