A striking handwritten sign at CLOVER 大門SS (Clover Daimon Self-Service Gas Station) in Hakodate, Hokkaido, blamed U.S. President Trump for fuel shortages: "トランプにより入荷無し すみません" ("No incoming supply due to Trump. Sorry").
The photo, shared by X user @Dks21100
on March 16, 2026, went viral with thousands of likes and reposts. The independent station faced temporary supply issues tied to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly U.S. actions affecting oil routes like the Strait of Hormuz—through which Japan imports nearly all its crude.
While no nationwide crisis exists, localized shortages and price spikes have occurred. The blunt, humorous message sparked online debate: some called it sharp satire, others questioned singling out one leader.
Author: Saikat Bhattacharya
