Iran says it will allow Japanese ships to pass through Strait of Hormuz. This shows a softer approach from Tehran on the key waterway.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, said the strait is not fully closed. He explained that only countries seen as enemies are blocked. Friendly or neutral countries can still pass.
He said Iran is ready to help ships move safely. Countries just need to contact Iranian authorities first. They can then agree on a safe way to travel.
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Japan depends heavily on oil from the Middle East. More than 90 percent of its crude oil comes from this region. Because of this, the Strait of Hormuz is very important for Japan.
The route has been mostly blocked since fighting began on February 28. The conflict started after attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran.
In the early days, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned ships not to pass. They even threatened to attack vessels entering the strait. This caused shipping traffic to drop sharply.
Recently, Iran has changed its message. Officials now say only enemy ships are banned. Others may pass with approval.
Some countries have already been allowed through. These include China, India, and Pakistan. Japan may soon join this group.
Reports say about 10 ships have passed safely in recent days. These ships stayed close to Iran’s coastline. This path is now seen as a safer route.
One ship, a Greek cargo vessel, passed near Larak Island. It sent a message saying it carried food for Iran.
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Iran is also working on a system to check ships before entry. This would make the process more organized and safer.
At the same time, many countries are asking Iran to fully reopen the route. Several European nations have shown support for safe shipping efforts.
Japan has also raised concerns about its ships stuck in the Gulf. Officials are now in talks with Iran to solve the issue.