Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced on February 28 that she will immediately enter the emergency prime ministerial facility if U.S. strikes on Iran trigger sudden shifts in the international security landscape.
National Security Council Convenes for Urgent Discussions
Takaichi convened the National Security Council (NSC) on March 1, engaging key cabinet members in detailed planning for potential responses. From her current position, she confirmed no harm to Japanese nationals has occurred so far.
The prime minister remains at the official residence alongside essential staff and aides. Officials note she can swiftly access an on-site bunker to manage crisis operations if an emergency unfolds.
Global Oil Market Volatility Heightens Concerns
Japan continues pressing major oil producers to prevent supply interruptions amid expanding Hormuz Strait cooperation. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures in New York have surged approximately 17% over the past two months since the start of the year, with the Iranian situation accelerating further price gains.
The nation imports 90% of its oil from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, and other Middle Eastern countries. Efforts focus on mitigating impacts from any retaliatory oil surges by the Iranian regime. Domestic assessments by government and private firms indicate the economic fallout from Hormuz disruptions may remain limited.
A February economic agency survey projects Japan’s strategic petroleum reserves cover 254 days of baseline consumption, equivalent to roughly eight months.
Airlines Suspend Middle East Routes
Japan Airlines (JAL) halted flights to Iran on February 28 and canceled its daily Haneda-Doha direct service through March 2, citing the unfolding developments.
