Tehran, March 21 (ANI): Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told Kyodo News in a telephone interview that Tehran is prepared to facilitate the passage of Japanese vessels through the Strait of Hormuz and that talks with Japan are ongoing.
Araghchi said the strait has not been closed and remains open, but Iran has imposed restrictions on vessels from countries involved in attacks against Iran while offering assistance to others amid heightened security concerns. He told Kyodo that Iran can ensure safe passage for countries such as Japan if they coordinate with Tehran.
Discussions with Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi are continuing, Araghchi said, but he could not disclose further details.
According to Kyodo, Iran has rejected calls for a temporary truce, insisting that any resolution must include guarantees against future attacks and compensation for damage inflicted during the conflict. Araghchi emphasized Tehran seeks “not a cease-fire, but a complete, comprehensive and lasting end to the war,” calling the fighting “imposed on Iran.” He described the initial attacks as “illegal, unprovoked” and framed Iran’s response as self-defense that will continue “for as long as it takes.”
Araghchi urged the international community to oppose the attacks and said Iran is open to mediation efforts and willing to consider proposals.
The remarks came as U.S. President Trump said the United States does not “need” the Strait of Hormuz and urged greater involvement from countries dependent on the route, naming Korea, Japan and China. He noted the route’s importance for energy supplies and said it would be helpful if those countries “get involved.”
As the conflict enters its 21st day, the Strait of Hormuz remains a geopolitical flashpoint affecting global energy supplies and diplomatic relations. (ANI)
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