In a recent statement made during a budget committee meeting on the 16th, Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi addressed the escalating situation in the Middle East. She emphasized that the primary focus should be on de-escalating tensions as quickly as possible. Takaichi's caution reflects the sensitivity of the current geopolitical climate, especially as Japan prepares for a scheduled summit with President Trump on the 19th, where discussions will include the legal evaluation of potential military action against Iran. However, she maintained a reserved stance on engaging deeply in this legal discussion, indicating that Japan's position would be communicated without delving into specifics regarding international law.

During the session, opposition lawmaker Kazushi Hirota questioned the Prime Minister about the imminent threats from Iran and suggested that clarity on such threats should be sought from President Trump. In response, Takaichi reiterated that she had no intention of discussing legal evaluations according to international law but was open to receiving detailed information if it were available beyond what has already been shared by the United States with the United Nations Security Council.

When pressed on whether Japan would consider sending Self-Defense Forces (SDF) to escort Japanese vessels in the Strait of Hormuz at Trump's request, Takaichi responded that no such request had been made yet and reiterated that no decisions regarding the dispatch of naval escort ships had been finalized. Japanese Defense Minister Shinzo Koizumi echoed this sentiment, stating that considering the deployment of SDF at this point is not under consideration. Additionally, Takaichi mentioned that her administration is working towards passing Japan's budget for the fiscal year 2026, which has already progressed through the House of Representatives and has begun deliberation in the House of Councillors.