Japan Considers Deploying SDF Troops for Mine-Sweeping Operations in Strait of Hormuz

Tokyo - Japan’s Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, on Sunday (22/3), signalled the possibility of deploying the Self-Defence Forces (SDF) for mine-sweeping operations in the Strait of Hormuz, provided a ceasefire is realised in the war between the US-Israel alliance and Iran.

“Japan’s mine-sweeping technology is at the top level in the world,” Motegi said during a television programme.

“Let’s say a ceasefire has been achieved, and if mines become an obstacle, we may need to consider it,” he added, referring to the potential deployment of the SDF.

The Japanese Foreign Minister stated that “no specific promises” have been made or any issues that Japan must bring back home for consideration.

The conflict has escalated into one with broader implications for stability in the Middle East and global energy supplies since US and Israeli forces launched airstrikes on Iran on 28 February.

Japan relies on the region for more than 90 per cent of its crude oil imports, most of which usually pass through the strait.

Motegi separately stated that one of the two Japanese nationals detained in Iran has been released. The individual was freed last Wednesday and boarded a flight from Azerbaijan to Japan, according to the foreign minister.

“We are working to free the other individual as soon as possible,” Motegi said.

A non-profit organisation stated that the other Japanese national is the head of NHK’s Tehran bureau, who was detained by local authorities on 20 January.

The Japanese government announced earlier this month that two Japanese nationals were detained and that it had requested their release earlier.