Japan urges Iran to open safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz
Japan urges Iran to open safe and free shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz. The appeal was made by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in a telephone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Monday.
Kyodo News, quoted on Monday, June 1, reported that Takaichi asked for safe navigation to be realized immediately for ships of all countries, including Japan and other Asian countries.
The Strait of Hormuz is now effectively still closed amid uncertainty over peace talks related to the US-Israeli war against Iran. This route is not just a point on the map. It is one of the world's energy delivery arteries.
Disruption in Hormuz has the potential to put pressure on Japan because the country depends on energy imports from the Middle East. Many shipments of oil and important commodities pass through the strait.
Takaichi told reporters that he also conveyed "strong hopes" that Iran would show as much flexibility as possible. He hopes an agreement can be reached as soon as possible.
The phone call was the third between Takaichi and Pezeshkian since the conflict began in late February. According to Takaichi, this time the talks were requested by Tehran.
During the conversation, Pezeshkian explained the developments and prospects for Iran's negotiations with the United States. Both leaders agreed to remain in close communication to find a solution to the conflict.
Japan is in a diplomatic position that is not simple. Tokyo is a close ally of the United States. However, Japan has also long maintained good relations with Iran.
Several Japanese-related ships have actually passed through the Strait of Hormuz. One of them is a tanker operated by the Idemitsu Kosan Co. unit. The ship arrived in Japan on May 25 and became the first ship to arrive since the conflict began.
US and Iranian media reports say the two sides are still working on revising the memorandum of understanding to extend the ceasefire for 60 days. Meanwhile, US government sources said negotiators had largely agreed to it last Thursday.
Separately, Takaichi also spoke by phone with Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten before communicating with Pezeshkian.
The two discussed the plan for Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako's state visit to the Netherlands this month. Takaichi said Japan and the Netherlands would work closely together to make the visit a success.