German fuel supply secure for now, National Security Council says
Germany’s National Security Council says German fuel supply is secure for now amid the Iran war, citing sufficient kerosene reserves and refinery options to cover foreseeable needs.
National Security Council finds kerosene stocks sufficient
The National Security Council concluded after a Monday meeting that there is currently no immediate fuel supply emergency for Germany despite tensions related to the Iran war. Participants and officials quoted by dpa said kerosene stocks in particular were judged adequate for a foreseeable period. The council noted that active monitoring will continue to detect any deterioration in the situation.
Task Force on energy elevated to a State Secretary committee
To strengthen oversight, the government agreed to expand the existing Task Force Energy Supply and reconstitute it as a State Secretary level committee. The move is intended to speed decision making and improve coordination between federal ministries, security agencies, and industry. Officials said the upgraded body will be better placed to trigger rapid measures if supply gaps emerge.
Chancellor Merz conditions for Hormuz operation endorsed
Council members backed Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s proposal that German minehunters and reconnaissance aircraft could join protection of commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz if a sustained ceasefire materializes. Merz had set clear preconditions, including an international legal basis such as a UN Security Council resolution, a formal government decision, a Bundestag mandate, and a robust operational concept. The council reaffirmed that any deployment would require those political and legal safeguards.
Decision announced on measures against the Russian shadow fleet
Delegates also approved a previously unspecified course of action targeting the so called Russian shadow fleet, a cluster of tankers and cargo vessels used to evade sanctions and obscure oil movements. The council acknowledged long standing EU warnings that such ships can serve as platforms for drone launches, interference, or surveillance. For operational security the government declined to disclose precise tactics it will employ in German territorial waters.
Refinery options and contingency measures highlighted
In assessing risks the council emphasized refinery options that could be activated to reduce import exposure and bridge temporary shortfalls. Officials pointed to the capacity for adjustments at domestic refineries and contractual flexibilities with suppliers as tools to respond quickly to disruptions. The council also discussed stock drawdown plans and logistical measures to prioritize deliveries to critical sectors such as aviation and emergency services.
Council composition reflects cross government coordination
Established last year, the National Security Council brings together senior federal ministers, security agencies, and representatives of several state governments to coordinate responses to acute crises. Monday evening’s meeting included members of the federal cabinet, intelligence and security officials, and a number of state premiers. The council’s remit is to provide a central, rapid decision making forum on threats ranging from energy disruptions to hybrid attacks.
Germany’s authorities said the situation will be kept under constant review and that the upgraded committee will meet regularly to reassess risk indicators and supply data. The government stressed that while current reserves make a short term shortage unlikely, contingency options remain in place to protect the economy and citizens if conditions change.
