Japanese oil tanker returns after Hormuz transit

A large oil tanker owned by Japan’s Idemitsu Kosan has arrived in Japanese waters after transiting the Strait of Hormuz, marking what appears to be the first such return since tensions escalated in the Middle East.

The vessel, the Idemitsu Maru, entered the coastal waters of Aichi Prefecture on May 25 and proceeded toward Japan, Caliber.Az reports via Japanese media. 

The tanker is carrying around 2 million barrels of crude oil—equivalent to roughly 80% of Japan’s daily domestic demand. Three Japanese nationals are among the crew, with authorities confirming their condition is stable.

The Japanese government had previously urged Iran to ensure the free and safe passage of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, amid concerns over disruptions to global energy flows. Despite this, a significant number of tankers are still reported to be operating in the Persian Gulf, with continued risks to energy supply stability.

On the morning of May 25, the vessel travelled along the coast of Aichi before heading toward its destination, an Idemitsu Kosan refinery in the city of Chita. The tanker, which is more than 300 metres long and sails under the Panamanian flag, is operated by a subsidiary of Idemitsu Kosan.

According to AIS tracking data, the Idemitsu Maru entered the Persian Gulf in late February, before the escalation of regional tensions. It loaded crude oil in Saudi Arabia and departed the region in early March, later anchoring off the coast of Abu Dhabi.

The vessel reportedly passed through the Strait of Hormuz on April 28. Reports also indicated that no transit fee was charged by the Iranian side.

By Sabina Mammadli