Tehran ready to facilitate Japanese shipping through Strait of Hormuz, FM says

Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi has said Tehran is prepared to facilitate the passage of Japanese vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy shipments, as discussions between the two countries continue.

In a telephone interview with Kyodo News on March 20, Araghchi said, “We have not closed the strait. It is open.”

He added that Iran, which was attacked by the United States and Israel in late February, is seeking “not a cease-fire, but a complete, comprehensive and lasting end to the war.”

Araghchi said Tehran has not shut the strategic waterway but has imposed restrictions on vessels belonging to countries involved in attacks against Iran, while offering assistance to others amid heightened security concerns.

He said Iran is prepared to ensure safe passage for countries such as Japan if they coordinate with Tehran.

Japan depends on the Middle East for more than 90 per cent of its crude oil imports, most of which transit through the Strait of Hormuz.

Araghchi said the issue of navigation by Japanese vessels was discussed in his recent talks with Japan’s foreign minister, Toshimitsu Motegi, adding that discussions are ongoing but details cannot be disclosed.

By Sabina Mammadli