Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday urged Japan to bolster its support for the United States as the American military endeavors to maintain open passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil shipping lane, amidst ongoing conflict with Iran.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Trump highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz for Japan during a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the White House. Japan heavily depends on the waterway for its energy imports, and the U.S. has been a longstanding defense ally, with thousands of American troops stationed in Japan. The U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict has significantly disrupted the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns about its impact on global oil prices and inflation. The strait is responsible for about 20% of the world's oil supply.
"I expect Japan to step up because ... we have that kind of relationship, and we step up in Japan. We have 45,000 soldiers in Japan. We spent a lot of money on Japan," Trump stated, emphasizing Japan's reliance on the strait for over 90% of its oil imports. However, he did not specify how he expected Japan to assist the U.S.
Earlier, Trump called on countries including South Korea, Japan, France, and Britain to send naval support to secure the waterway. However, he later indicated that the U.S. no longer required their assistance, suggesting discomfort over their perceived reluctance.
During the meeting, both Trump and Takaichi presented a united stance against Iran's nuclear ambitions and its aggressive actions along the Strait of Hormuz and against neighboring countries. Takaichi, through an interpreter, condemned Iran's actions and reiterated Japan's commitment to preventing the development of nuclear weapons by Iran.
The prime minister also expressed her belief in Trump's ability to achieve global peace, citing the current severe global security environment. She also addressed China's relations, emphasizing Japan's consistent approach to dialogue with Beijing amidst strained relations following her remarks on Taiwan and China's subsequent responses.
Trump pledged to take necessary actions to reduce oil prices, amid concerns over the economic impacts of the Middle Eastern conflict. This follows Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's comments on potentially "unsanctioning" Iranian oil to stabilize energy prices.
In response to questions about military deployments, Trump confirmed he had no plans to send additional troops to the Middle East, though he noted the U.S. could target Iranian military assets if necessary.
Trump's discussions with Takaichi also encompassed trade, critical mineral supply chains, and defense cooperation. Trump's planned visit to China for a summit with President Xi Jinping has been postponed, with the meeting expected to be rescheduled soon.