Prime Minister Takaichi Holds Fourth Call with Iran’s President

Against the backdrop of the latest situation in the Middle East, Prime Minister Takaichi held a telephone call with Iranian President Pezeshkian. The talks covered the situation surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, consultations based on the memorandum between the United States and Iran, regional energy security, and the protection of Japanese nationals.

Japan expressed its position of containing tensions through communication with the countries concerned and connecting this to diplomatic de-escalation and a stable navigation environment.

Prime Minister Takaichi conveyed to Iran Japan’s position that, in light of exchanges with the countries concerned toward reopening the Strait of Hormuz, it was important to ease military tensions and calm the situation at an early stage. She also conveyed Japan’s position that consultations should proceed in accordance with the memorandum signed by the United States and Iran in June and that an early final agreement, including on the nuclear issue, was necessary.

Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Japan emphasized the importance of ensuring free and safe navigation without additional costs and urged Iran to consult with the international community, including countries that use the strait. From the perspective of energy security, Japan also expressed concern about the current situation in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and requested that Iran urge the Houthis to exercise restraint.

Regarding the protection of Japanese nationals, Japan again requested an early resolution of the issue involving one Japanese national who was detained in Iran and released on bail in April. President Pezeshkian explained the current status and outlook of Iran’s exchanges with Oman concerning the Strait of Hormuz, as well as Iran’s efforts to resolve issues concerning the Bab el-Mandeb Strait through dialogue with Saudi Arabia.

Prime Minister Takaichi said that Japan would continue close communication with Iran.