Japan, Turkey leaders voice opposition to toll charge on Hormuz passage

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed their disapproval of charging vessels that traverse the Strait of Hormuz, according to Kyodo news on Wednesday. Their joint stance emerged during a phone conversation as the U.S.-Iranian negotiations remained unresolved. Takaichi underscored the significance of unimpeded and secure navigation through the strait, while Erdogan reiterated his alignment with her viewpoint.

The leaders also acknowledged Japan's high regard for Turkey's role in mediating the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict that began in late February. They subsequently discussed bolstering bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including security, economy, and education.

The flow of maritime traffic through the strait remains severely limited due to the ongoing standoff between the United States and Iran concerning control and transit fees. Iran has reportedly been contemplating imposing tolls on passing vessels and demanding authorization for their passage - a move that the U.S. has firmly rejected.

This blockade has led to disruptions in energy supplies, causing global fuel prices to soar and adversely affecting resource-scarce Japan, a key U.S. ally with a history of friendly ties with Iran and a heavy reliance on Middle Eastern crude oil imports.

Later on Wednesday, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud met in Riyadh to collaborate in securing free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. They affirmed their commitment to ensuring stable energy supplies to international markets, as per the Japanese Foreign Ministry. Saudi Arabia stands as one of Japan's primary sources of crude oil.