Washington D.C. – Web Desk: US crude oil and petroleum reserves have fallen to their lowest levels in nearly 45 years amid escalating tensions with Iran, raising alarms among energy experts and policymakers .
Supply Drop
Bank of America data shows the US now holds only 43 days of crude supply—the lowest level since July 1983 . Commercial crude inventories stood at approximately 409.7 million barrels by July 10, roughly 6% below the five-year average .
Strategic Reserves Shrink
The Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) has also declined to 316.5 million barrels as of July 18, its lowest since April 1983 . Combined commercial and strategic inventories total approximately 730.8 million barrels .
Market and Geopolitical Pressures
Analysts attribute the drawdown to Middle East tensions, Strait of Hormuz uncertainty, and potential supply chain disruptions . If global supplies tighten further, the US may be forced to take additional measures to protect its reserves and meet domestic energy needs .
