Iran: ready to facilitate the passage of Japanese ships through the Strait of Hormuz

Iran is ready to facilitate the passage of Japanese ships through the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic chokepoint for global energy supplies. This was stated by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in an interview with Kyodo News, noting that talks with Tokyo are ongoing.“We have not closed the strait. It is open,” Araghchi said, emphasising that Tehran, which has been the target of attacks by the United States and Israel since late February, is seeking “not a ceasefire, but a complete, comprehensive and lasting end to the war”. The head of Iranian diplomacy clarified that Iran has not halted shipping through the strategic chokepoint, but has imposed restrictions on vessels from nations involved in offensive actions against Tehran, adding that Iran is willing to guarantee safe passage to countries such as Japan, provided there is coordination between the two nations. Tokyo relies on the Middle East for over 90% of its crude oil imports, most of which pass through the strait. The issue of Japanese ships’ passage was addressed in recent talks between Araghchi and Japan’s Foreign Minister, Toshimitsu Motegi, the Iranian diplomat noted, adding that discussions are ongoing but details cannot be disclosed. Araghchi, a former ambassador to Japan, has held two telephone conversations with Motegi since the attacks began on 28 February. Iran has rejected calls for a temporary truce, insisting that any resolution must include guarantees against future attacks and compensation for damages suffered during the conflict. Araghchi also noted that Tehran was engaged in negotiations with Washington when the attacks began. Finally, Araghchi reported that several countries are attempting to mediate an end to the conflict and that Iran is willing to consider proposals, whilst suggesting that, despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, the United States has not yet demonstrated a willingness to reach a credible resolution.