Japan's PM says talks on ending Hormuz crisis should include countries that depend on strait

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasized on Wednesday that discussions to resolve the restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz should involve not only regional countries and nations reliant on the strait, but also the International Maritime Organisation. The importance of free and safe navigation, especially for Japan, which relies on the strait for 93 percent of its crude oil imports, was highlighted.

Tensions in the Middle East have intensified, posing a growing challenge to navigation in the strait, which is considered an international public asset. Takaichi spoke at an event on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, expressing Japan's commitment to diplomatic efforts for a swift de-escalation of the Middle East conflict.

Both the US and Iran are under pressure to find a diplomatic solution. Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Tehran is willing to engage in dialogue, diplomacy, and negotiations without resorting to force, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned various options for President Donald Trump, including military actions.

According to Middle East sources, Iran has proposed a roadmap to end the conflict, which includes a region-wide ceasefire, the gradual reopening of the Hormuz Strait, and an end to the US blockade on Iranian ports. This proposal was unveiled the day after US and Iranian officials met for talks on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.

The strait, crucial for energy shipments, saw around 20 million barrels of crude oil and petroleum products passing through it daily before the crisis, as per the International Energy Agency. Disruption of such traffic has affected global energy supplies. Takaichi described Hormuz as a critical hub for global trade, where unrestricted and safe passage must be restored without additional costs for shipping companies.

Japan has maintained open diplomatic channels while securing alternative oil supplies. This year, Tokyo endorsed international talks on freedom of navigation and proposed safe maritime corridors within the IMO for vessels and crews affected by the Gulf blockade. In June, the Economy Ministry reported that alternative purchases were expected to replace the oil imports disrupted by the blockade the following month.

Takaichi stated that Japan would continue direct communication with Iran and other nations, including through telephone conversations and leader meetings.