Japan Weighs Minesweeping Role in Strait of Hormuz After Ceasefire

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Tokyo: Japan could consider deploying its military for minesweeping operations in the Strait of Hormuz if a ceasefire is reached in the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said on Sunday.

Speaking on a Fuji TV programme, Motegi stressed that any such move would depend on a complete halt in hostilities. “If there were to be a complete ceasefire, hypothetically speaking, then things like minesweeping could come up,” he said, adding that naval mines obstructing safe passage would warrant consideration.

Japan’s military role overseas remains constrained under its postwar pacifist constitution. However, security legislation passed in 2015 allows deployment of the Self-Defence Forces abroad if a situation threatens Japan’s survival and no alternative measures are available.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical artery for global energy supplies, carrying nearly a fifth of the world’s oil shipments. Japan depends on the route for about 90 percent of its crude imports.

Motegi said Tokyo has no immediate plans to arrange passage specifically for stranded Japanese vessels, underscoring instead the importance of restoring safe navigation for all ships through the narrow waterway.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi told Kyodo News that he had discussed the possibility of allowing Japan-related vessels to transit the strait during recent talks with Motegi.

The disruption has already driven up global oil prices, prompting Japan and other countries to tap into strategic reserves.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump met Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in Washington last week, urging Tokyo to take a more active role in securing the vital shipping lane.

Takaichi said she had outlined to Trump the extent of support Japan could provide under its legal framework, highlighting the limitations imposed by domestic law.