The United States has announced plans to release 53.3 million barrels of crude oil from its emergency reserves in an effort to ease pressure on global energy markets and stabilise rising fuel prices.

The decision comes as part of a coordinated response to recent disruptions in global oil supply triggered by heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, including the ongoing United States–Israel–Iran conflict, which has affected key shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.

Under the arrangement, oil will be supplied from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) to selected energy companies, including Exxon Mobil, Trafigura, and Marathon Petroleum. These companies are expected to repay the borrowed crude later, with additional premiums attached under the agreement.

Officials say the programme is designed to help calm volatile markets without placing a financial burden on taxpayers, while ensuring steady supply during a period of global uncertainty.

The SPR, located in underground storage facilities across Texas and Louisiana, holds emergency crude stocks meant for supply disruptions. Authorities have already released significant volumes in recent months as part of wider international efforts coordinated through the International Energy Agency.

Despite these interventions, global fuel prices remain elevated, with gasoline costs reaching multi-year highs in some regions, putting pressure on consumers and economies worldwide.