Indonesia is working to secure the release of two Pertamina tankers currently held in the Strait of Hormuz, as concerns rise over regional stability amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East. A fact check also debunked claims circulating online about North Korean leader Kim Jong Un offering support to Iran, and Indonesia’s energy minister has urged citizens not to panic buy fuel despite the situation.
Indonesia Negotiates Release of Pertamina Tankers
Indonesian Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia stated the government is negotiating for the release of two tankers belonging to PT Pertamina International Shipping (PIS) that are currently located in the Strait of Hormuz. The ships are docked while negotiations continue.
Pertamina has also ensured the safety of the crews on board the tankers amid the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran. Indonesia is seeking alternative energy sources from the United States to mitigate any potential energy security concerns.
Fact Check: Kim Jong Un’s Alleged Support for Iran
A video and photo collage falsely attributed to North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un circulated on Facebook and Instagram on March 1, 2026, claiming he pledged support to Iran against the US and Israel. The post included a fabricated quote stating a willingness to confront America and its allies.
The recording had been widely shared, but reports confirm Kim Jong Un did not make such a declaration.
Minister Urges Calm Amid Fuel Concerns
Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia urged the public not to panic buy fuel following the situation in the Strait of Hormuz. He assured citizens that fuel stocks are sufficient to meet domestic needs.
Bahlil stated that Pertamina has shifted sourcing from the Middle East to the United States, Nigeria, and Brazil. The call for calm came after long queues formed at gas stations due to fears of shortages, triggered by a previous statement regarding Indonesia’s fuel stock levels.
Bahlil clarified that his earlier statement referred to Indonesia’s maximum oil storage capacity, which can hold reserves for up to 25 days, and that this capacity has been consistent for some time.
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