Japan signals possible minesweeping role in Strait of Hormuz after ceasefire

Japan’s Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi has indicated that Tokyo may consider deploying its Self-Defence Forces for minesweeping operations in the Strait of Hormuz, but only if a ceasefire is reached in the ongoing conflict involving Iran, US and Israel. Speaking on a television programme, Mr Toshimitsu said Japan’s minesweeping technology is among the best in the world, adding that if a ceasefire is in place and mines become an obstacle, the country may consider its role.

He noted there was no specific promise regarding any deployment, despite discussions during last week’s Japan-US summit in Washington. The conflict, which escalated after US and Israeli air strikes on Iran on the 28th of last month, has raised concerns over regional stability. Japan depends on the region for more than 90 per cent of its crude oil imports, much of it passing through the Strait of Hormuz.