Japan Considers Mine-Clearing Mission in Strait of Hormuz after Ceasefire
The Japanese government is opening the possibility of deploying its military forces for a mine-clearing mission in the Strait of Hormuz. This option will be considered on the condition that a ceasefire has been achieved in the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi revealed this possibility in an interview with Fuji TV.
Motegi stated that Tokyo could take on a technical role if the security situation in this vital trade route begins to ease.
“If a comprehensive ceasefire occurs, hypothetically, then things like mine sweeping could come into play,” Motegi said, as quoted by Al Jazeera.
He emphasised that this step remains speculative and heavily depends on the conditions on the ground.
According to him, obstacles in the form of sea mines in international shipping lanes pose a serious concern for global navigation security.
“This is purely hypothetical, but if a ceasefire is established and sea mines create obstacles, then I think it would be something that needs to be considered,” he continued.
Motegi’s statement comes after Japan previously stated it would not send troops to secure that trade route.
That decision was made despite pressure and requests for assistance from US President Donald Trump to maintain stability in the Strait of Hormuz region.
Tensions in the Gulf region have risen again after Iran’s military issued a stern warning to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) regarding potential attacks from that country’s territory.
Iran threatens total retaliation if their energy infrastructure is attacked again. Attacks in the Persian Gulf have triggered a surge in petrol prices and crippled 17% of Qatar’s LNG export capacity.
France has stated it will help maintain shipping security in the Strait of Hormuz. However, concrete steps will only be taken after a ceasefire is achieved.
The minister echoed Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s statement calling the Middle East conflict “not Germany’s war.”
He stated that countries benefiting from shipping security in the strait must pay costs and taxes to Iran.
France has stated it will help maintain shipping security in the Strait of Hormuz. However, concrete steps will only be taken after a ceasefire is achieved.
Kataib Hezbollah militia agrees to a pause in attacks on the US Embassy in Baghdad with strict conditions. Meanwhile, Iran’s gas supplies to Iraq have completely stopped.
Pakistan and Afghanistan agree to temporarily halt deadly conflict to honour Eid al-Fitr, following airstrikes in Kabul that killed hundreds.
Tehran calls reports of communication with the US “pure lies.” Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserts that Iran has never requested a ceasefire since the war broke out.
The US predicts the war against Iran will end in a matter of weeks. However, Tehran insists it is prepared for a long fight without negotiations.