Japan to receive first LNG via Strait of Hormuz since de facto closure
Japan is set to take delivery of its first LNG cargo routed through the Strait of Hormuz since the strait's de facto closure at the start of the Iran war. The shipment is being read as a symbolic step in global energy supply.
Nikkei Asia reports that a Japan-bound LNG tanker will become the first Asia-bound vessel to transit the Strait of Hormuz since the strait was effectively closed at the start of the Iran war. The cargo set out from Qatar and is due to arrive at Japan's Senboku terminal in the coming days.
Hormuz typically carries about one third of the world's seaborne LNG and roughly 20 percent of crude oil flows. The strait's de facto closure for months pushed Japanese and South Korean importers toward more expensive cargoes from the United States and Australia.
The transit suggests a partial reopening of supply under the current ceasefire framework. Analysts caution, however, that insurance premiums remain far above pre-war levels, and that a return to steady flows will require a tighter security understanding between Tehran and Washington.
More from Asia
Bangladesh tests its India ties by seeking China's aid for Teesta River
Bangladesh's government has decided to seek China's help in managing the Teesta River, instead of relying on long-standing Indian cooperation. The move signals a recalibration of South Asia's water, trade and diplomatic balance.
Taiwan arms sale back in focus as Trump insists he gave no ground to Xi
Following the Trump-Xi summit, US President Donald Trump said he gave no ground to Beijing on Taiwan. At the centre of the debate is whether Washington will approve a new defence package for Taiwan and how China would respond.
Explosion at China fireworks factory kills 26 people
An explosion at a fireworks factory in Hunan province, China, killed 26 people and injured 61, according to state media reports.