Khaberni - Iran has expressed its readiness to help Japanese oil tankers cross the vital Strait of Hormuz, as confirmed by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to "Kyodo News" in an interview published on Saturday.
Japan relies on oil imports from the Middle East, most of which pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran closed the strait in response to the American-Israeli attacks, prompting countries that depend on this strategic passage to look for alternative routes before depleting their reserves.
In a phone interview with Kyodo News on Friday, Araghchi denied closing the passage, stating that countries attacking Iran face restrictions, while assistance is provided to other countries.
He said, "We did not close the strait; it is open," adding that Iran is ready to ensure safe passage for Japan.
Japan, which has the fourth largest economy in the world, is also the fifth-largest importer of oil, with 95% of its oil imports coming from the Middle East and 70% of that passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Tokyo announced on Monday the beginning of withdrawals from its strategic oil reserves, which are among the largest in the world.
The country has reserves sufficient to cover its domestic consumption for 254 days.
