Press Releases
Japan-Iran Foreign Ministers’ Telephone Call
September 8, 2026
On September 8, commencing at 5:30 p.m. for 25 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 resumption of exchanges of attacks between the U.S. and Iran. While referring to his recent visits to Saudi Arabia and Oman, Minister MOTEGI stated that it is important to achieve an early de-escalation of the situation and resume talks between the U.S. and Iran as soon as possible. Minister MOTEGI also strongly requested Iran to show maximum flexibility to avoid a prolonged continuation of the current impasse.
- Minister MOTEGI expressed concern over Iran’s continued attacks on civilian vessels and strongly requested Iran to exercise maximum restraint. 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, and that the future of the Strait should be discussed, in accordance with international law, by the international community as a whole, including the littoral states, the states using the Strait, and the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
- Furthermore, Minister MOTEGI underscored the importance of ensuring stability in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, and explained that Japan would work together with the Government of Yemen to this end. Minister MOTEGI once again 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 Iran’s position. Both ministers confirmed that they would continue to maintain close communication towards a diplomatic resolution of the situation.