Iran has offered assurances to Japan that it will facilitate the passage of Japanese vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global fuel supplies. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that his country has no intention of closing the strait.
Japan relies heavily on crude oil imports from the Middle East, the majority of which transit through the Strait of Hormuz. Concerns over potential disruptions to this vital shipping lane have prompted nations dependent on the route to explore alternative pathways and bolster reserves, particularly following escalating tensions in the region. The possibility of Iran effectively blocking the strait arose in response to recent U.S.-Israeli actions.
In a phone interview with Kyodo News on Friday, March 20, 2026, Araghchi denied any plans to close the waterway, clarifying that restrictions would be applied to countries initiating hostile acts against Iran, while assistance would be extended to others.
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“We have not closed the strait. The strait is open,” he said.
He added that Iran is prepared to ensure a safe passage for Japanese ships.
Japan, the world’s fourth-largest economy, is the fifth-largest oil importer, with 95% of its oil supply originating in the Middle East and 70% passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
On Monday, March 16, 2026, Tokyo announced it had begun releasing oil from its strategic reserves, among the largest in the world.
The country holds reserves equivalent to 254 days of domestic consumption.
Members of the International Energy Agency (IEA) agreed on March 11 to utilize oil reserves to mitigate price surges triggered by conflict in the Middle East – representing the largest coordinated response to date for such a situation.
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(rfs/imk)
