Japan and Oman Agree to Promote Reduction of Tensions in the Middle East

Tokyo - Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Omani Sultan Haitham bin Tariq al-Said agreed on Tuesday (14/4) that the two countries would cooperate to promote de-escalation of tensions in the Middle East, including ensuring maritime security through the Strait of Hormuz. After a telephone conversation with Haitham, Takaichi told reporters that she had explained Japan’s view on the importance of maintaining the ceasefire between the United States and Iran and promptly reaching a final agreement through diplomatic efforts. The United States and Iran had previously agreed to a two-week ceasefire announced on Wednesday (8/4). However, high-level talks held over the past weekend to negotiate long-term peace ended without any breakthroughs. Takaichi also conveyed that her government would consider steps that could be taken to help restore damaged infrastructure in Oman, one of Japan’s crude oil suppliers, following Iran’s attacks on Gulf countries. This was in response to attacks by the United States and Israel since the end of February. Japan relies on the Middle East for more than 90 per cent of its crude oil imports, most of which pass through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy shipping route that is currently practically closed due to the conflict.