[International Energy Agency Director: Ready to Release More Oil Reserves if Needed] Odaily Planet Daily News – International Energy Agency (IEA) Director Fatih Birol stated that he is prepared to release additional oil reserves as global energy prices surge. Birol made these remarks in Tokyo after the Japanese Prime Minister requested the IEA to prepare for a second emergency release of reserves. Earlier this month, the IEA announced the release of 400 million barrels of oil, marking the largest oil release in the agency's history. He said, 'We still have 80% of our stockpile. If necessary, we are ready to proceed.' However, he also warned, 'The world is facing a severe energy security threat.' (Jin10)