US Strategic Petroleum Reserve hits 1982 lows, limiting buffer against Strait of Hormuz supply disruptions

The US Strategic Petroleum Reserve has declined to 289.7 million barrels, the lowest level since 1982, following a 3.7 million barrel draw. This depletion reduces the US capacity to mitigate potential oil price shocks resulting from a closure or disruption of the Strait of Hormuz, increasing the strategic necessity of maintaining maritime transit.