TOKYO – Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba called for swift de-escalation in Iran on Sunday, as tensions rise following US military actions. Speaking from his official residence, Ishiba emphasized the need for restraint but stopped short of endorsing the US strikes.
Immediate Impact
Prime Minister Ishiba addressed the media, highlighting Japan’s cautious monitoring of the situation. “We are gathering and analyzing information and closely monitoring developments with grave concern,” he stated. He underscored the urgency of calming the situation, adding, “Iran’s nuclear development must be blocked.” When questioned about Japan’s stance on the US attacks, Ishiba deferred, saying, “I will answer the question when appropriate.”
Key Details Emerge
Earlier, Japan’s Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya issued a statement underscoring the importance of dialogue between the US and Iran. He lamented the recent hostilities, noting, “The attacks on Iran by Israel on June 13th, and the subsequent attacks by Iran on Israel, resulting in an exchange of retaliatory attacks, are extremely regrettable… Japan believes that the most important thing, above all, is to de-escalate the situation as soon as possible.”
Trump Describes Attacks as a ‘Spectacular Military Success’
On Saturday evening, President Donald Trump announced on social media that US forces had targeted three key nuclear sites in Iran. In a subsequent address from the White House, he hailed the strikes as a “spectacular military success” and cautioned Iran against further escalation, promising “far greater” attacks if they fail to “make peace.”
Trump claimed the US air strikes completely “obliterated” Iran’s nuclear sites. However, a senior US official told The New York Times that the attack on the secretive Fordo nuclear facility — believed to be deeper underground than the Channel Tunnel — did not destroy the heavily fortified facility but severely damaged it.
Japanese Nationals Evacuated From Iran and Israel
With the situation becoming more precarious, Ishiba has directed relevant ministries to ensure the safety of Japanese nationals in Iran and Israel. According to Kyodo News, approximately 200 Japanese nationals are in Iran, with around 1,000 in Israel. Last week, 87 individuals were evacuated from the two countries. On Sunday, an additional 21 Japanese nationals departed Iran, arriving in Azerbaijan by bus.
What Comes Next
The announcement comes as international leaders urge restraint and diplomatic solutions. Japan’s cautious approach reflects its broader strategy of maintaining regional stability and promoting peaceful resolutions.
“The move represents a significant shift from previous diplomatic efforts,” said a senior analyst at the Japan Institute of International Affairs.
As the world watches closely, the focus remains on de-escalating tensions and preventing further conflict. Regional implications continue to unfold, with countries worldwide closely monitoring the developments.