TEHRAN, March 21 — Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said Tehran is ready to facilitate the passage of Japanese vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, a key artery for global energy shipments, and that negotiations with Japan on the issue are ongoing.
"We have not closed the strait. It is open," he said in a telephone interview with Kyodo News on Friday.
Araghchi also stressed that Iran, which was attacked by the United States (US) and Israel in late February, is seeking "not a cease-fire, but a complete, comprehensive, and lasting end to the war."
Iran has not closed the strategic waterway but has imposed restrictions on vessels belonging to countries involved in attacks against Iran, while offering assistance to others amid heightened security concerns.
He added that Iran is prepared to ensure safe passage for countries such as Japan if they coordinate with Tehran.
Japan relies on West Asia for over 90 per cent of its crude oil imports, most of which travel through the Strait.
Araghchi said that the issue of Japanese vessels navigating the strait was discussed in his recent talks with Japan's Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, noting that discussions are continuing, but the details cannot be disclosed.
Kyodo reported that Iran has rejected calls for a temporary truce, insisting that any resolution must include guarantees against future attacks as well as compensation for the damage inflicted during the conflict.
He described the war as "imposed on Iran," saying Tehran had been engaged in negotiations with the US when the attacks began.
"This was an illegal, unprovoked act of aggression," Araghchi said, adding that Iran's response constitutes self-defence and will continue "for as long as it takes."
He called on the international community, including Japan, to take a stand against the attacks, while expressing appreciation for Tokyo's traditionally "balanced and fair" position and long-standing friendly ties with Iran.
Araghchi noted that several countries are attempting to mediate an end to the conflict and said Iran is "open to any initiative" and willing to consider proposals.
At the same time, he suggested that while diplomatic efforts are ongoing, the US has yet to demonstrate its readiness for a genuine resolution.
The war has escalated into a broader confrontation, raising concerns about regional stability and the security of energy supplies passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
