Japan considers minesweeping in Hormuz Strait if ceasefire fails, citing oil security and safety.

Japan’s Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said on March 22, 2026, that Japan might consider deploying its Self-Defense Forces for minesweeping in the Strait of Hormuz if a ceasefire ends the conflict between Iran, the U.S., and Israel. He stressed the move would be hypothetical, contingent on mines threatening maritime safety and Japan’s survival being at risk, under strict legal and constitutional limits. Japan, which imports over 90% of its oil through the strait, has no immediate plans to send military assets but is assessing its role in ensuring safe passage. One detained Japanese national was released and returned home, while efforts continue for the second, believed to be an NHK bureau chief.