Iran may allow Japanese ships through Hormuz

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said Tehran is prepared to allow Japanese-linked vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, according to Japan’s Kyodo News.

Araghchi said discussions with Japanese officials are already under way, aimed at a possible temporary easing of the blockade.

A Japanese government official told Kyodo that direct negotiations with Iran would be the most effective way to restore access, but cautioned that care must be taken to avoid provoking the United States.

The official added that even if Japanese vessels are allowed to pass, it would not resolve the wider energy crisis, reports UNB, citing BBC.

Another foreign ministry official said Iran’s “true intent” behind the proposal needs to be carefully assessed.