Iran's foreign minister confirms safe passage for Japanese vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, as other countries negotiate access amid the waterway's partial closure.
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Japanese ships will be permitted to transit the Strait of Hormuz, as Tehran enforces a selective blockade on the strategic waterway.
Background on the Strait's Closure
The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively closed since the United States and Israel attacked Iran on February 28, leading to warnings from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) that they would block enemy ships.
Japan sources more than 90 percent of its crude oil from the Middle East, making the strait vital for its energy imports, which have been disrupted by the current restrictions.
In recent days, Iran has allowed ships from countries like China, India, and Pakistan to pass, indicating a case-by-case approach to navigation through the waterway.
Lloyd's List reported that at least 10 ships have transited the strait by sailing near Iran's coastline, with one Greek bulk carrier passing on Friday while broadcasting a message about cargo for Iran.
Iran is developing a coordinated system for vetting and registering ships, as several nations, including Japan, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, have lobbied for safe passage.
During a call with Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, Araghchi offered to provide safe routes for Japanese vessels, urging them to contact Iranian authorities for arrangements.
This development comes as countries continue direct talks with Iran to mitigate the impact of the strait closures on global shipping and energy supplies.
