Japanese Public Wants Energy-Saving as Takaichi Holds Back

The war in the Middle East is putting pressure on the Japanese government to consider energy-saving measures, a challenge for Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi as she seeks to calm public anxiety over potential shortages.

Japan stands out among countries heavily dependent on energy from the Persian Gulf, having so far refrained from calling for conservation measures seen in places like Australia and South Korea. The nation has relied on releases from its strategic oil reserve, while seeking alternative sources of supply. The government is mindful of not hurting economic growth or spurring panic among consumers.