Japanese PM Urges Free and Safe Passage in Strait of Hormuz During Phone Call with Iranian President

Kuala Lumpur – Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has called for the immediate reopening of free and safe passage for ships in the Strait of Hormuz, which is currently effectively closed, during a telephone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday.

Takaichi stressed the importance of restoring maritime security in the strategic waterway as quickly as possible, especially for Japanese vessels and those from other Asian nations still affected by the closure.

According to Kyodo News, the Japanese Prime Minister also confirmed that one Japan-related ship carrying three Japanese crew members successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz safely, thanks to diplomatic coordination with Iranian authorities.

However, many other Japanese-owned or Japanese-linked vessels — including those with Japanese nationals on board — remain trapped in the Persian Gulf and urgently require safety guarantees.

Japan relies heavily on the Strait of Hormuz, with around 90% of its crude oil imports passing through the route. The strait has been almost paralysed since late February 2026 due to ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran.

In addition to the Hormuz issue, Takaichi expressed hope that peace talks between Washington and Tehran will resume promptly to reach a final agreement.

Both leaders agreed to maintain close communication going forward. Iran reportedly gave assurances to facilitate the safe passage of Japanese vessels through the strait.

This telephone discussion marks the third call between Takaichi and Pezeshkian since April.