Japan, Iran foreign ministers hold telephone talks

Japan's Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu has conveyed his concern to his Iranian counterpart over the resurgence of attacks between Iran and the United States.

Motegi held talks by phone with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Tuesday for the ninth time since March.

He told Araghchi that it is important that the current situation be de-escalated and Tehran and Washington resume talks as soon as possible. He strongly requested that Iran show flexibility to avoid prolonging the current impasse.

Japan's foreign minister also reiterated the importance of restoring free and safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz without additional costs. He explained Japan's stance that it is essential for the international community to discuss the future of the strait in accordance with international law.

Motegi requested that Iran strongly urge the anti-government Houthi group in Yemen, which is backed by Iran, to exercise restraint in order to secure stability in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

He also called for an early resolution of the issue surrounding a Japanese national who was detained by Iranian authorities in January this year and released on bail last April.

In response, Araghchi explained his country's position.

The two foreign ministers confirmed that they will closely communicate with each other to resolve situations diplomatically.