International News 27 March 2026
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Anwar Ibrahim’s Diplomacy Pays Off as Iran Allows Malaysian Ships Through Strait of Hormuz
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that Malaysian vessels have now been allowed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz after intensive diplomatic engagement with leaders across the Middle East. In a televised address on Thursday (March 26), Anwar revealed that he had spoken with leaders from Iran, Egypt, Turkey, and several other countries to help ease tensions and ensure the smooth flow of energy shipping routes. He also expressed his gratitude to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian for enabling Malaysian ships to navigate through the strategic waterway. “We are now in the process of securing the release of Malaysian oil tankers and the personnel involved so they can safely return home,” Anwar said.
Asian Countries Queue for Russian Oil as Iran War Disrupts Global Supply
Several Asian countries, including Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka, have begun lining up to purchase Russian oil following supply disruptions caused by the U.S.–Iran conflict in the Strait of Hormuz. This situation has raised concerns that demand could eventually exceed available supply, according to multiple sources, including Russian officials. After the war in Ukraine led European buyers, once the largest importers of Russian oil and gas to reduce their dependence on Moscow, India and China now account for around 80% of Russia’s oil exports, with Turkey also remaining a key buyer. Recently, however, more Asian nations have shown growing interest in securing Russian oil. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov noted that demand is particularly strong for alternative destinations, warning that it may soon become difficult to accommodate additional demand.
Russia Considers Reinstating Gasoline Export Ban if Necessary
Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak stated that the government may reimpose a gasoline export ban if domestic market conditions require it. Novak added that he will hold a meeting with oil companies on Friday to discuss the current state of fuel supply and pricing within the country. This move is part of the government’s broader effort to maintain energy stability amid ongoing global market volatility. In the past, Russia has repeatedly introduced restrictions on gasoline and diesel exports to curb rising prices and prevent domestic shortages. Last year, several regions in Russia, as well as parts of Ukraine under its control, experienced gasoline shortages due to increased attacks on Russian refineries and a surge in seasonal demand. Export restrictions have been considered effective in safeguarding domestic supply, although they also carry implications for global energy trade flows.