TOKYO: Japan’s Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi urged Iran to show maximum flexibility in indirect negotiations with the United States during a Thursday call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Japan’s Foreign Ministry said.
Motegi called for the restoration of free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. He urged Iran to address those matters constructively.
In response, Araghchi briefed him on the negotiations and explained Iran’s position, according to the Japanese ministry. Its account did not detail the proposals discussed.
Meanwhile, Motegi reiterated Japan’s commitment to an early de-escalation and a diplomatic resolution. He said Tokyo intended to build diplomatic momentum alongside other countries concerned with the situation.
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On maritime security, Motegi referred to a ministerial meeting Japan co-hosted in New York during the recent United Nations General Assembly. He also called for broader international discussion about the Strait of Hormuz’s future.
The indirect US–Iran negotiations began last week. During Thursday’s exchange, both ministers agreed to maintain close communication as they pursued a diplomatic resolution.
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Motegi urged Iran to show flexibility in indirect US negotiations and act constructively on restoring safe maritime navigation.
