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Iran is seeking to legalize its control over the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway handling 20% of global oil. The move risks escalating regional tensions and affecting international energy security. Major maritime powers such as the U.S., China, and India are expected to strongly oppose.
A recent opinion poll shows 70% of Japanese people want the government to actively urge energy conservation amid potential power supply strains. The survey, released by Kyodo News on May 11, 2026, reflects public concern about possible shortages, especially during peak summer demand. The results indicate a willingness among citizens to cooperate with government policies as Japan faces energy security challenges.
Military tensions between the US and Iran at the Strait of Hormuz are escalating, threatening global energy security. The strategic waterway handles about 20% of the world's crude oil and LNG, disrupting shipping and risking higher oil prices. The international community urges restraint and dialogue to avoid a major conflict.
A crude oil tanker operated by Eneos Holdings has transited the Strait of Hormuz, heading to Japan as the second tanker to leave the Persian Gulf since U.S.-Israel military operations against Iran began. The crossing is viewed positively for Japan's energy security, given its dependence on Middle Eastern oil. The strategic waterway, carrying 20% of global crude, remains under close watch by Tokyo amid regional tensions.
The US government announced that Washington and Beijing have reached an agreement prohibiting any party from imposing transit fees in the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to safeguard freedom of navigation in this strategic waterway. The two nations pledged to cooperate in preventing unilateral fees or restrictions, a move seen as easing trade tensions and protecting global energy security.
The energy crisis triggered by the Iran war is hitting developing countries hard, as they lack sufficient oil storage to cope with price shocks. The IEA's release of 400 million barrels in March highlighted a severe shortage of reserves across the developing world, particularly in Asia-Pacific. Experts say nations should aim for 120–150 days of reserves, while renewable energy acceleration offers a long-term solution.
Gulf states are urging the UN Security Council to adopt a resolution demanding Iran cease attacks on ships, remove mines, and allow humanitarian aid through the Strait of Hormuz. Diplomats from Qatar, Bahrain, and the UAE stressed the waterway's critical role in global energy security and the need for collective action to restore free navigation. The draft, backed by the US, avoids explicit authorization of force but operates under Chapter VII of the UN Charter.
The International Energy Agency has released a report stressing that cutting methane emissions from fossil fuels can combat climate change and strengthen energy security, especially amid the Iran crisis. Methane emissions from oil, gas, and coal total 124 million tonnes per year, with oil being the largest source.
MT Sarv Shakti, carrying 46,313 tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas and 20 crew members, passed through the Strait of Hormuz on May 2 and is expected to arrive in India by mid-May.
