Japan’s Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi suggested the country might deploy its military for minesweeping operations in the Strait of Hormuz if a ceasefire is reached in the ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran. The 90% of global oil supplies passing through this strait have been largely disrupted, leading to concerns about potential blockages and increased global oil prices.
The Japanese Self-Defence Forces are restricted by their postwar pacifist constitution but can be deployed overseas under specific circumstances outlined in the 2015 security legislation. This includes situations where an attack on a close security partner threatens Japan’s survival and no other means of response are available.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi confirmed he had discussed potentially allowing Japanese vessels to pass through the strait with Motegi. The U.S.-Israeli conflict, now in its fourth week, has led Tehran to largely close the passage for Iranian ships.
U.S. President Donald Trump urged Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to “step up” efforts during a recent meeting, emphasizing his calls on allies to help open the strait. However, these appeals have so far been unsuccessful in changing Iran’s stance.