Japan, Iran leaders hold phone talks, likely over Strait of Hormuz

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi engaged in a phone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Wednesday, discussing the critical issue of the Strait of Hormuz and its potential economic ramifications. Takaichi emphasized the necessity of removing any fees for passage through the vital waterway, which has been effectively blocked since negotiations between the U.S. and Iran have stalled.

She conveyed her strong belief that it is imperative for the United States and Iran to hold discussions and reach an agreement swiftly, particularly concerning nuclear matters.

During their approximately 20-minute dialogue, Pezeshkian elaborated on Iran's stance, including the status and potential outcomes of ongoing talks with Oman concerning the Strait of Hormuz. Takaichi also expressed deep concern over the situation in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, urging Iran to encourage the Houthi rebels in Yemen, who are allied with Tehran, to exercise restraint.

Yemeni authorities confirmed on Tuesday that a deadly attack on a cargo ship in the strait had occurred, marking an alternative route for crude oil transport due to the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Takaichi reiterated her requests for an early resolution to the case of a Japanese national detained in Iran, who was released on bail in April and is believed to be the bureau chief of Japan's public broadcaster NHK in Tehran. The discussions between Takaichi and Pezeshkian marked their first since June and the fourth since the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran commenced in late February. Despite being a close U.S. ally, Japan has historically maintained amicable relations with Iran.