The Japan has signalled its willingness to consider deploying military forces to the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions persist over the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Japan’s Foreign Minister, Toshimitsu Motegi, disclosed on Sunday that Tokyo is exploring the possibility of conducting minesweeping operations in the vital shipping route—but only if a ceasefire is achieved.
Speaking in an interview with Fuji TV, Motegi stressed that such a move remains hypothetical at this stage.
“In the event of a complete ceasefire, the issue of minesweeping could arise,” he said. “If naval mines obstruct navigation, it would be something worth considering.”
He further clarified that Japan currently has no immediate plans to negotiate special arrangements for Japanese vessels stranded in the region, emphasizing instead the need to ensure safe passage for all ships navigating the strait.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araqchi, revealed in remarks to Kyodo News that he had held discussions with Motegi on the potential transit of Japan-linked vessels through the waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global النفط corridor, with Japan depending on it for roughly 90 percent of its oil imports. However, the route has effectively been blocked by Iran amid the escalating conflict, raising concerns over energy security and international shipping.
Tokyo’s cautious stance underscores the delicate balance it faces between safeguarding its energy lifelines and avoiding deeper military involvement in an already volatile region.
