Japanese tanker carrying Saudi oil crosses Strait of Hormuz
The Idemitsu Maru, a Panama-flagged tanker carrying 2 million barrels of Saudi oil, has crossed the Strait of Hormuz, marking a significant event as it is the first Japan-linked crude tanker to do so since the onset of the Iran war. Japan has historically relied on the region for the majority of its oil imports, but recent conflicts have disrupted these supplies. Despite the ongoing tensions, Japan continues to navigate its energy needs through diplomatic efforts and maritime operations.
- ▪The Idemitsu Maru is the first Japan-linked tanker to cross the Strait of Hormuz since the Iran war began.
- ▪Japan previously relied on the Middle East for 95% of its oil imports before the conflict.
- ▪Traffic in the Strait of Hormuz has significantly decreased since the war started, with only seven ships crossing in the past day.
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Ships and boats in the Strait of Hormuz, Musandam, Oman, April 24. Reuters-YonhapTOKYO — Panama-flagged tanker Idemitsu Maru, carrying 2 million barrels of Saudi oil, crossed the Strait of Hormuz, LSEG shipping data showed on Tuesday, becoming the first Japan-linked crude tanker to do so since the Iran war began.Before the U.S.-Iran conflict broke out on February 28 and disrupted Middle East crude oil and liquefied natural gas supplies, Japan relied on the region for 95% of its oil imports, much of it coming via the Strait of Hormuz.The move comes as Japan's recent diplomatic efforts to safeguard energy supplies were disrupted by the war.Earlier in April, the Sohar LNG tanker co-owned by Japan's Mitsui O.S.K.
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