Press Releases
Japan-Iran Foreign Ministers’ Telephone Call
March 17, 2026
On March 17, commencing at 10 p.m. for 30 minutes, Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a telephone call with H.E. Dr. Seyyed Abbas ARAGHCHI, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The overview is as follows:
- At the outset, Minister MOTEGI expressed his grave concern that the exchange of retaliatory attacks has continued since the previous telephone call on March 9, and that damage has expanded, including to neighboring countries. Minister MOTEGI strongly urged Iran to immediately cease attacks on civilian and infrastructure facilities in the Gulf countries, as well as actions that threaten the safety of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Minister MOTEGI also expressed concern over the large number of Japanese-related vessels currently detained in the Persian Gulf and requested Iran to take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of all the vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, including those of Japan and other Asian countries.
- In response, Foreign Minister Araghchi explained Iran’s position. Both ministers concurred on continuing close communication towards the early de-escalation of the situation.
- Minister MOTEGI reiterated his request for the early release of two Japanese nationals detained in Iran.