Tokyo, Japan – Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced Wednesday that the last remaining Japanese-linked vessel had safely transited the Strait of Hormuz, confirming its complete exit from the Persian Gulf region.
A Japanese government spokesperson described the transit as “a very positive development.” This comes amid a heightened international shipping crisis stemming from the military standoff between the United States and Iran.
The Japanese government explained that the ship, named “Idemitsu Maru” according to technical reports, completed its transit of the vital strait early this morning. It is now en route to Japanese ports. Official sources confirmed the safety of all crew members, including the three Japanese nationals on board. They noted that the ship was among dozens of vessels that have been blockaded in the Gulf since the crisis began last February.
This move comes as a result of intensive diplomatic efforts led by the Japanese Prime Minister, who communicated directly with Iranian President Masoud Peleshkian. Takaichi emphasized that Tokyo has repeatedly urged Tehran to immediately restore free and safe navigation for all commercial vessels, in accordance with international law and to ensure the flow of global energy supplies. Japan stressed in its messages to Tehran that the security of the Strait of Hormuz is a top priority for Japanese national security, as the country relies on the region for more than 90% of its oil imports.
This transit comes amid an extended “conditional truce” in the region, but tensions persist due to the reciprocal naval blockade. Observers believe Japan’s success in withdrawing its ships reflects the effectiveness of Tokyo’s “active neutrality” policy. It also demonstrates its ability to maintain effective communication channels with Tehran at a time of international isolation. This paves the way for Japan to reduce its reliance on strategic reserves, which it has recently begun drawing upon to address supply shortages.
