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Japan Considers Minesweeping in Hormuz if US-Iran Ceasefire Occurs
Japan might consider minesweeping in the Strait of Hormuz if a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran were established, according to Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi. President Trump met with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Thursday, urging her to increase support as he presses allies to send warships to help open the strait.
Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said that Japan could consider minesweeping to assist vessels if a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran were in place and naval mines were creating an obstacle. Motegi told Kyodo News that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi spoke to him regarding the possibility of Japanese-related vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Japan relies on the Strait of Hormuz for approximately 90% of its oil shipments, an area which Tehran has largely closed during the war. Japan, along with other countries, has released oil from its reserves due to a spike in global oil prices. President Trump met with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Thursday, urging her to "step up" as he presses allies to send warships to help open the strait. Takaichi told reporters that she briefed President Trump on the support Japan can provide under its laws.
Key Facts
- Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said Japan could consider minesweeping in the Strait of Hormuz if a U.S.-Iran ceasefire occurs.
- Motegi stated that minesweeping could be considered if naval mines were creating an obstacle after a ceasefire.
- Japan's military actions are limited by its postwar pacifist constitution, but 2015 security legislation allows Japan to use its Self-Defense Forces overseas in certain situations.
- Motegi said there are no immediate plans for arrangements to allow passage for stranded Japanese vessels.
- Japan relies on the Strait of Hormuz for about 90% of its oil shipments.
- President Trump urged Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to increase support in opening the strait.
- Takaichi briefed President Trump on what support Japan could provide under its laws.
Primary Source
Research Sources
- Hindustan Times — Japan could consider Hormuz minesweeping if US-Iran ceasefire reached, says foreign minister