>> GOOD MORNING. OUR TOP STORIES THIS MORNING, A CRUDE SPIKE ESCALATING TENSIONS IN THE MIDDLE EAST. PUSHING UP OIL BY 25%.FORCING PRODUCERS TO CURB OUTPUT. I RAN NAMES THE LATE AYATOLLAHS SON AS ITS NEW SUPREME LEADER. SIGNALING THE REGIME WILL CONTINUE ITS HARD-LINE APPROACH.AND IRAN CONTINUES ATTACKS ON GOAL STATES -- GULF STATES. WE ARE SEEING A HUGE IMPACT ON MARKETS TODAY. LET'S START THERE.SOME OF THESE BROADER INDICES. LOSSES OF SEVEN OR 8% ON THE NIKKEI AND KOSPI AS WE PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO THE PR ...

Core Viewpoint - Japanese oil refiners are urging the government to utilize strategic petroleum reserves due to escalating tensions in the Middle East affecting crude supply [1][2]. Group 1: Government Response - The Japanese Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry stated that there are no immediate plans to release crude from strategic reserves [2]. - Japan's heavy reliance on Middle Eastern crude, sourcing about 95% from the region, primarily from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, and Qatar, poses a risk of supply disruptions [2][4]. Group 2: Supply Chain Concerns - The Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit chokepoint, has been effectively closed to tanker traffic since the escalation of conflict, impacting oil deliveries [3]. - Approximately 70% of Japan's Middle Eastern crude typically arrives via tankers through the Strait of Hormuz [2]. Group 3: Strategic Reserves and Preparedness - Japan has a significant oil reserve, with 254 days of oil reserves at the end of 2025, including 146 days in national reserves and over 100 days in private sector inventories [4][5]. - As a member of the International Energy Agency (IEA), Japan is required to maintain oil stock levels equivalent to at least 90 days of net imports and is prepared to respond to severe supply disruptions [4].

Combat operations continue at this time in full force, and they will continue until all of our objectives are achieved. President Trump. They're saying the military will sustain its attacks on Iran, even as he warns of more US casualties.And despite rising fears that a prolonged campaign could deplete the country's defense capabilities. Live from Singapore, this is inside with Haslinda Amin, where we dive deeper into the global ramifications of this with crucial context and shop analysis. Oil spikes As the ...