Japan could consider deploying its Self-Defence Forces for minesweeping operations in the Strait of Hormuz if a ceasefire is reached in the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said on Sunday.
Speaking on a Fuji TV programme, Motegi stressed that any such move would depend on conditions on the ground. "If there were to be a complete ceasefire, hypothetically speaking, then things like minesweeping could come up," he said. "This is purely hypothetical, but if a ceasefire were established and naval mines were creating an obstacle, then I think that would be something to consider," Reuters reported.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global shipping route, handling nearly one-fifth of the world's oil supply. Japan depends heavily on this route, with around 90 percent of its oil imports passing through it.
Legal limits and strategic concerns
Japan's military role remains restricted under its postwar pacifist constitution. However, security legislation enacted in 2015 allows the use of its Self-Defence Forces overseas if a situation threatens Japan's survival and no other options are available.
Motegi said Tokyo has no immediate plans to secure passage for stranded Japanese vessels. However, he emphasised the need to restore safe navigation. He described it as "extremely important" to create conditions that allow all ships to pass through the narrow waterway, as per Reuters.
Iran has largely restricted movement through the strait during the conflict, now in its fourth week. The disruption has contributed to rising global oil prices, prompting Japan and other countries to release reserves.
Diplomatic efforts and global pressure
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said he had discussed the issue with Motegi, including the possibility of allowing Japan-linked vessels to pass through the strait.
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Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump met Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in Washington on Thursday. Trump urged Japan to increase its role in securing the waterway, as the US continues to press allies to contribute naval support, Reuters reported.
Takaichi later said she had briefed Trump on what assistance Japan could provide under its legal framework, indicating that any involvement would remain within constitutional limits.
