Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae has responded to the United States' request for Japan to participate in a multinational naval escort coalition in the Strait of Hormuz. During a budget committee meeting on the 16th, Takaichi highlighted that the government is examining what actions might be legally feasible and necessary, while seeking to gather intelligence related to the regional security situation. She emphasized the importance of not rushing into premature decisions regarding Japan's military response.

The context of this request came after U.S. President Trump urged several countries, including Japan, South Korea, and others, to send naval vessels to secure the shipping lanes in the area impacted by Iranian blockades. He expressed that nations reliant on oil supplies through the Strait should take responsibility for its security. Anticipation is growing that during the upcoming summit on the 19th in Washington, President Trump might directly press Prime Minister Takaichi to commit Japan to the coalition.

However, Takaichi carefully avoided making concrete commitments, stating that no formal requests have been received from the U.S. yet. She suggested that the government is currently analyzing how to protect Japanese vessels and personnel within the legal framework, underscoring that sending Japan's Self-Defense Forces to the Strait would involve navigating complex legal hurdles and potentially delicate diplomatic repercussions. The government's approach means any potential military engagement must carefully weigh Japan's security obligations and regional stability.