Japan sets three conditions for joining Hormuz mission

Japan has set three conditions for participating in a mission in the Strait of Hormuz, Kyodo News reported Sunday. According to a source familiar with the matter, Tokyo would require a ceasefire between the US and Iran, established communication channels with the Iranian side, and a reduced threat level in the strait before deploying its Self‑Defense Forces.

Potential operations

If those conditions are met, potential Japanese operations would include clearing abandoned mines and protecting commercial vessels. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian have held three phone calls since the war began in late February. Japan imports about 90% of its energy supplies from the Gulf and was among the first countries to release oil from its strategic reserves.