Japan PM Takaichi urges Iran to ensure fee-free passage through Strait of Hormuz

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi pressed Iran to guarantee free and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing the need to avoid additional fees. During a 20-minute phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Takaichi highlighted the importance of normalizing navigation in the crucial waterway.

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We must restore free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz as soon as possible, without additional fees.

"We must restore free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz as soon as possible, without additional fees," Takaichi stated, urging Iran to engage in thorough discussions with the international community, including nations that use the strait. Pezeshkian reportedly explained Iran's position and its ongoing talks with Oman regarding the strait.

Takaichi also voiced significant concern over the escalating attacks by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen on vessels transiting the Bab al-Mandab strait. This route has become a vital alternative for oil transport, especially during periods of tension in the Strait of Hormuz. "From the perspective of energy security, we are deeply concerned about the current situation in the Bab al-Mandab strait," she said, strongly calling on Iran to restrain the Houthis.

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From the perspective of energy security, we are deeply concerned about the current situation in the Bab al-Mandab strait.

Pezeshkian responded that Iran is working to resolve the issues while engaging in dialogue with Saudi Arabia. Takaichi reiterated the importance of de-escalating military tensions and called for an early diplomatic agreement on Iran's nuclear program. She also urged Iran to expedite the resolution of the case involving a former NHK bureau chief detained in Tehran.

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We are working to resolve the issues while engaging in dialogue with Saudi Arabia.