[Provisional Translation]
(Reporter)
Madam Prime Minister, you have just concluded your fourth summit telephone call with H.E. Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
First, could you tell us which side proposed today's telephone call and how it came about?
Also, could you explain once again what message you conveyed regarding Japan's position on the situation in the Middle East?
In June, the United States and Iran both signed the memorandum. Did you exchange views on the implementation of that memorandum?
In addition, you recently held a summit telephone call with His Majesty the Sultan of Oman. Did your discussion today also touch upon the consultations between Oman and
Iran regarding maritime navigation through the Strait of Hormuz?
(Prime Minister TAKAICHI)
A short while ago, from 4:20 p.m. for approximately twenty minutes, I held my fourth summit telephone call with H.E. Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, in light of the latest developments in the Middle East.
I noted that, as the situation surrounding the Strait of Hormuz has reached a critical juncture, Iran has continued its exchanges with the countries concerned regarding the reopening of the Strait. Against this backdrop, I stressed the importance of easing the current military tensions and bringing the situation under control as soon as possible.
I also conveyed Japan's position that it is essential for the United States and Iran to continue their discussions in accordance with the memorandum and to reach a final agreement at an early date, including on the nuclear issue. I expressed my strong hope that the situation would be de-escalated promptly through diplomacy.
Furthermore, with regard to the Strait of Hormuz, I emphasized the importance of ensuring free and safe navigation without imposing additional costs, and called on Iran to engage closely with the international community, including countries that use the Strait.
In addition, from the perspective of energy security, I conveyed Japan's deep concern over the current situation in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and urged Iran to strongly encourage the Houthis to exercise restraint.
I also renewed my request for the early resolution of the case involving a Japanese national who was detained in Iran and released on bail in April, as part of our efforts to protect Japanese nationals overseas.
In response, President Pezeshkian explained Iran's position, including the current state of discussions with Oman regarding the Strait of Hormuz and the outlook for those discussions.
Regarding the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, he explained that Iran is working to resolve the issue through dialogue with Saudi Arabia.
Japan will continue to maintain close communication with Iran.
Thank you.