Japan Prime Minister Takaichi Urges Iran to Ensure Free Navigation in Strait of Hormuz

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi held phone talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Wednesday to discuss maritime security and diplomatic tensions. Takaichi emphasized that the free and safe navigation of the Strait of Hormuz must be restored as soon as possible without the imposition of additional fees. This request comes as the trade artery has been effectively closed amid stalled negotiations between the United States and Iran. Takaichi also stated that Japan views it as necessary for the U.S. and Iran to reach an agreement on nuclear issues at an early date.

During the 20 minute conversation, Takaichi expressed deep concern regarding the situation in the Bab el Mandeb Strait. She asked President Pezeshkian to urge the Tehran aligned Houthi rebels in Yemen to exercise restraint. This follows a deadly attack on a cargo ship by the Houthis, who declared a maritime blockade targeting Saudi Arabian vessels in July. President Pezeshkian informed Takaichi that Iran is working to resolve the issue through dialogue with Saudi Arabia and discussed the status of discussions with Oman.

Additionally, Takaichi requested an early resolution to the case of a Japanese national, believed to be the NHK Tehran bureau chief, who was detained in Iran and released on bail in April. These talks mark the first communication between the two leaders since June and the fourth since the U.S. Israeli war on Iran began in late February.