First Japanese-Managed Tanker Arrives in Japan After Passing Through Strait of Hormuz Amid Middle East Tensions

Following the deterioration of the situation in the Middle East, a Japanese-managed tanker has successfully passed through the Strait of Hormuz and arrived in Japan. The crude oil carried by the ship is equivalent to about 80% of Japan's daily consumption. Sources revealed that the ship 'did not pay transit fees to Iran.' According to reports from Yomiuri Shimbun, FNN, and NHK, the tanker 'Idemitsu Maru,' registered in Panama and managed by the major oil wholesaler Idemitsu Kosan Group, arrived off the coast of Aichi Prefecture on the morning of the 25th. Idemitsu Kosan stated that the ship carried approximately 2 million barrels of Saudi Arabian crude oil, which will be transported to refineries. There are three Japanese crew members on board, all in good health. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry explained that the Idemitsu Maru passed through the Strait of Hormuz in late April, traveled through the Strait of Malacca and the South China Sea, and arrived in Japanese waters. Since the US and Israel attacked Iran in late February, Iran has effectively blockaded the Strait of Hormuz. Government officials explained that the Idemitsu Maru did not pay transit fees when passing through this strategic chokepoint. A tanker from ENEOS Holdings also passed through the Strait of Hormuz earlier this month and is expected to arrive in early June. The government noted that as of yesterday, 39 Japanese-related vessels and three Japanese crew members remain in the Persian Gulf, and ensuring their safety remains a challenge.