Japan urges Iran to guarantee free navigation in Strait of Hormuz

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi held a telephone discussion with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to urge the guarantee of “free and safe navigation” through the Strait of Hormuz without additional fees. Takaichi emphasized that maritime security in the strait is vital for global economic stability, particularly for Japan’s reliance on Middle Eastern crude oil.

During the call, Takaichi advocated for de-escalation through diplomacy and encouraged the United States and Iran to resume negotiations, potentially using the Islamabad Memorandum as a reference to reach a final agreement, including on nuclear issues. She also expressed concern regarding the Strait of Bab el-Mandeb and called on Iran to urge Houthi groups in Yemen to exercise restraint following recent attacks on cargo ships.

President Pezeshkian addressed the regional tensions, noting that Iran is pursuing diplomatic solutions through dialogue with Oman and Saudi Arabia. Additionally, Takaichi requested legal certainty and a final resolution regarding a Japanese citizen, an NHK bureau chief, who had previously been released on bail in Iran.