Press Conferences

Foreign Minister MOTEGI Toshimitsu: It is now past midnight, but on the afternoon of February 28, Japan time, Israel and the U.S. carried out attacks against Iran, which were followed by Iran’s retaliatory attacks against Israel and neighboring countries. The exchange of attacks is ongoing.

In light of the increasing tensions in the Middle East, the National Security Council (NSC) held a meeting a short while ago, which I attended.

In response to this incident, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) established an emergency response headquarters headed by myself immediately after the situation arose, and we are fully responding to the situation.

Based on the Prime Minister’s instructions, we will take all possible measures to ensure the safety of Japanese nationals and share information with relevant parties, as well as thoroughly gather information in coordination with relevant countries. Regarding the protection of Japanese nationals, preparations for evacuation are already under way.

Iran’s development of nuclear weapons must never be allowed for the sake of maintaining the international nuclear non-proliferation regime. Japan has consistently respected fundamental values and principles, such as freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. We have pursued diplomatic efforts to resolve Iran’s nuclear issue in coordination with relevant countries.

Talks between the U.S. and Iran are extremely important for resolving this issue, and Japan has strongly supported them. Iran must stop its development of nuclear weapons and actions that destabilize the region.

The peace and stability of the Middle East, including energy security, and maintaining the international non-proliferation regime are of utmost importance to Japan. We will continue to make all necessary diplomatic efforts, in coordination with the international community, to bring about an early settlement of the situation.

That concludes my opening remarks.

Reporter: You just mentioned that Iran’s development of nuclear weapons must not be allowed. However, regarding the latest U.S. attack, I would like to ask once again about the position of the Government of Japan, including whether it supports the attack or does not support it.

Foreign Minister MOTEGI: The Government is currently making earnest efforts to gather information. In any case, Japan’s consistent position is that Iran’s development of nuclear weapons must never be allowed.

Reporter: You stated that preparations for the evacuation of Japanese nationals are under way. Is it correct to understand that you are referring to preparations being made in Iran? Secondly, when does the Government intend to commence the evacuation?

Foreign Minister MOTEGI: As I mentioned earlier, retaliatory attacks are spreading to neighboring countries. Given these circumstances, it is critical to ensure the safety of Japanese nationals across the Middle East, including Iran and its neighboring countries. Regarding the timing of evacuation, as this is a matter concerning the safety of Japanese nationals, I would like to refrain from disclosing details of when and what specific measures will be taken at this point.