Japan's Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi stated the nation is not pursuing independent negotiations with Iran to secure safe passage for its vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. This follows reports that Tehran is prepared to grant such access. The Strait is a critical global chokepoint for oil shipments, with Japan heavily reliant on Middle Eastern crude. Motegi's denial signals Tokyo's preference for multilateral frameworks over bilateral deals with Iran.

The move underscores Japan's cautious approach amid escalating regional tensions and sanctions pressures on Tehran. Japan's oil imports from the Persian Gulf region make this stance strategically significant for energy security planning.