Iran ready to help Japanese ships sail through Strait of Hormuz,

11:16 PM / March 20, 2026 Iran ready to help Japanese ships sail through Strait of Hormuz, Iranian foreign minister says Iran is willing to help Japanese ships sail through the Strait of Hormuz, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told Kyodo News in an interview published on Saturday. Japan depends on crude oil imports from the Middle East, most of which transit the Strait of Hormuz. In a telephone interview with Kyodo News on Friday, Araghchi denied closing the passageway, insisting instead that countries attacking Iran face restrictions, while others were being offered assistance. "We have not closed the strait. It is open," he said, adding that Iran was prepared to ensure safe passage for Japan. Japan, the world's fourth-largest economy, is the fifth-biggest importer of oil, with 95% of it coming from the Middle East and 70% passing through the Strait of Hormuz. On Monday, Tokyo said it was beginning the release of its strategic oil reserves — among the world's largest. The country holds reserves equivalent to 254 days of domestic consumption. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met with President Trump at the White House Thursday. The prime minister said she told Mr. Trump about Japan's desire to establish a joint venture to stockpile crude oil procured from the U.S. "Regarding the ongoing tense situation in Iran, we confirmed the importance of swiftly calming the situation and ensuring the safety of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and the stable supply of energy," Takaichi said in a social media post following the meeting. CBS/AFP https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/iran-war-us-israel-gas-and-oil-prices-trump-netanyahu-strait-hormuz/#post-update-f44dfba2