Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Kihara clarified that no specific commitments were made during the recent Japan-U.S. summit concerning the dispatch of Self-Defense Forces to the Strait of Hormuz.
During a press conference, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Kihara stated that no concrete agreements were made at the Japan-U.S. summit on December 19 regarding the deployment of Self-Defense Forces to the Strait of Hormuz, which remains effectively blocked. He referenced comments made by Foreign Minister Motegi, who mentioned potential mine-clearing operations post-ceasefire during an interview, but Kihara stressed that there are currently no specific operations under consideration. Kihara underscored the significance of ensuring navigation safety in the Strait and reiterated Japan's request for appropriate measures to secure the safety of all vessels in light of recent developments.
Additionally, Kihara responded to comments made by U.S. President Trump, who earlier demanded that Iran lift the blockade on the Strait within 48 hours or face military action against its power plants. Kihara emphasized the crucial need for navigation safety in the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting Japan's diplomatic efforts for a resolution through discussions with Iranian officials. He affirmed that Japan continues pursuing the early release of a Japanese individual detained in Iran since January, reiterating that their health is currently stable. Furthermore, he provided updates on another Japanese citizen released earlier this month who returned to Japan on the 22nd.
