Press Releases
Japan-Iran Foreign Ministers’ Telephone Call
July 28, 2026
On July 28, commencing at 6:20 p.m. for 20 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 Iran.
- Minister MOTEGI expressed deep concern over the expansion of damage, including to neighboring countries, whereas exchanges of attacks between the U.S. and Iran have ceased over the past few days, and called on Iran to exercise maximum flexibility for the early de-escalation of the situation. At the same time, Minister MOTEGI underscored the importance of the continuation of the U.S.-Iran talks and steady resolution of the issues in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding, and stated that Japan would work to support such talks.
- Minister MOTEGI also reiterated Japan's position that it is of utmost importance to restore free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz without additional costs at the earliest possible date.
- Furthermore, Minister MOTEGI expressed concern, from the perspective of energy security, regarding the Houthis' declaration of a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia and their attacks on commercial vessels, and called on Iran to urge the Houthis to exercise restraint.
- In addition, Minister MOTEGI once again requested an early resolution to the issue concerning the Japanese national released on bail in Iran last April.
- In response, Foreign Minister Araghchi explained the current state of exchanges between the U.S. and Iran as well as Iran's position. Both ministers confirmed that they would continue to maintain close communication towards a diplomatic resolution of the situation.