Israel says it will keep control over part of southern Lebanon after war with Hezbollah ends

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio anticipates the US operation against Iran, conducted jointly with Israel, will conclude in "weeks, not months." This statement comes amid escalating violence, including Israeli strikes in Beirut and Iranian missile attacks on Israel, following an initial strike on February 28 that killed Iran's supreme leader. Israel has threatened to escalate attacks, targeting additional areas aiding Iran's weapons development. The conflict has caused economic disruption, including Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global oil shipments. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has blocked ships from transiting the strait to and from ports of countries allied with Israel and the US. Rubio acknowledged that keeping the Strait of Hormuz open will be an immediate challenge.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to ships traveling to and from ports of countries allied with the U.S. and Israel. The IRGC stated they turned back three container ships after a warning, citing the prohibition of vessel movement to or from ports of "Zionist-American enemies." This action follows President Trump's claim that the Strait was open and his extension of a deadline for Iran to open the Strait or face consequences, now set for April 6. Trump asserted this extension was at Tehran's request, suggesting Iran desires a deal to end the regional conflict that began with attacks by the U.S. and Israel on February 28. The IRGC also cautioned civilians to avoid areas near U.S. forces.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated at a G7 meeting in France that the US expects to conclude its military operations in Iran within weeks. This timeline aligns with President Trump's previous estimates of a four-to-seven week operation, initiated on February 28th. Despite Iran denying interest, Rubio indicated that messages have been exchanged regarding potential peace talks, though the US seeks clarity on who would represent Iran. Trump reportedly offered Iran a 15-point plan to end the war, delivered via Pakistan. Iran alleges that Israel attacked its nuclear facilities and steel plants, threatening retaliation. The US has paused attacks on Iranian power plants to allow for negotiations.

At a G7 gathering outside Paris, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and European diplomats clashed over the wars in Ukraine and Iran. Rubio criticized European reluctance to assist in the Strait of Hormuz, referencing the US support for Ukraine. European nations, led by Germany and France, expressed irritation, citing a lack of a clear request from the US and legal constraints regarding involvement in the Strait of Hormuz. While planning for a defensive mission in the Strait of Hormuz is underway among willing partners, European nations emphasized that the conflict is not theirs and they do not want to be entangled in it. The G7 bloc consists of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

In March 2026, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to attend a G7 foreign ministers’ meeting in France. The purpose of Rubio's visit is to garner support for potential military action against Iran. This effort comes after President Donald Trump has reportedly strained relationships with allies through recent insults. Rubio faces the challenge of convincing skeptical G7 diplomats of the necessity of war with Iran, despite the damaged diplomatic landscape. The meeting takes place as tensions remain high in the region.

Secretary of State Rubio is attending the G7 foreign ministers meeting in France to advocate for a stronger stance against Iran. The U.S. is pushing for increased allied support in addressing Iranian actions, particularly regarding maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz. This comes amid frustration from the U.S. regarding what it views as a tepid response from key allies like Britain, France, and Germany, who are hesitant to engage in offensive military operations. Rubio emphasized that the U.S. prioritizes its own interests and expects allies to take stronger action against Iran's destabilizing activities, including its nuclear ambitions and threats to international shipping. The meeting highlights a growing divergence between the U.S. and its allies on how to handle the conflict with Iran, with European officials signaling a desire to de-escalate tensions.

In a statement made on March 27, 2026, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the US anticipates its military operation in Iran will conclude within weeks, not months. Rubio indicated that the operation is progressing faster than initially projected. He further clarified that the US expects to achieve its objectives in Iran without the need for deploying ground troops. The statement provides a timeline for the expected conclusion of the US military operation in Iran, emphasizing its expedited progress and strategy. The reasons behind the military operation were not specified in the article.

Following a G7 meeting in France on March 27, 2026, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed reporters regarding Iran and the Strait of Hormuz. Rubio denounced Iran's potential tolling system in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it illegal and dangerous, and reiterated President Trump's call for international cooperation to secure the waterway, a critical passage for global oil supply. He urged G7 members and Asian countries to contribute to this effort. Rubio also spoke against settler violence in the occupied West Bank. The Strait of Hormuz, prior to the US and Israel's war against Iran, saw approximately 20% of the world's liquid petroleum supply pass through it daily.

Amidst renewed conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, Israel has expanded its military targets in Lebanon to include bridges over the Litani River. Israeli forces have already destroyed a bridge on the southern Lebanese coastal highway over the Litani River, a strategic location. This strike severed a key connection between Nabatiyeh and the al-Hujair valley. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has characterized Israel's targeting of bridges as a potential prelude to a ground invasion. The conflict has led to displacement of Lebanese civilians seeking shelter in Beirut.

The US and Israel's war on Iran is escalating, with increased strikes reported by Al Jazeera on March 26, 2026. Despite US President Trump's claims of ongoing peace talks, Iran denies negotiations and vows to continue resisting US aggression. Iran retaliated with strikes against Israel and Gulf countries, further destabilizing the Middle East and driving up global energy and food prices. The US has reportedly targeted a significant portion of Iran's missile and drone production facilities. Iran has warned of potential attempts to occupy one of its islands and is considering levying tolls on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a move that could give them leverage in any future negotiations. Civilian casualties have been reported, including the deaths of two teenagers in a US-Israeli strike.

Tensions are escalating between Iran and the US in the Strait of Hormuz region as of March 2026. Despite Iran's denial, the US claims ongoing talks are occurring, but warns of potential strikes if negotiations fail. The US has threatened Iran with significant retaliation if provoked. In Iran, pro-government rallies have taken place in Tehran. Meanwhile, Israel has activated its Iron Dome defense system to intercept missiles launched from Iran towards Tel Aviv. Israeli airstrikes have also been reported in Lebanon.

Amidst the US-Israel war, Iran has effectively blockaded the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for about 20% of global oil and gas supplies. Nearly 2,000 vessels are stranded near the strait, which is located between Iran, Oman, and the UAE. Iranian media reports indicate parliament is drafting legislation to collect tolls from ships traversing the strait, citing security concerns and comparing it to standard practice in other corridors. Even without the legal framework, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has allegedly implemented a "toll booth" system to control vessel traffic. This action has exacerbated an existing energy crisis, raising fears of a global recession, as Iran uses the strait as a geopolitical bargaining chip.

Oil prices surged, with Brent crude topping $104 a barrel on Thursday, after Iran denied engaging in direct talks with the United States regarding de-escalation of the conflict. The price increase reverses a dip from the previous day when reports suggested a potential peace plan. Asian stock markets also reacted negatively to the news. Iran's denial and the White House's warning of further consequences if Iran doesn't accept defeat have heightened concerns about the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil supply route. Since the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran on February 28, oil prices have risen over 40%, leading to energy conservation measures globally, and analysts predict further increases until the Strait is secure.

On March 25, 2026, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran is not currently engaged in negotiations with the United States and will not negotiate while under attack. This statement directly contradicts claims made a day prior by U.S. President Trump, who asserted that the U.S. was already in talks with Iranian officials. The Iranian government denies President Trump's claim and maintains its position of refusing dialogue with the U.S. under present circumstances. The location of these alleged talks was not specified in either statement. The reason for Iran's refusal is due to the ongoing perceived aggression from the U.S.

According to reports, the US and Iran have presented proposals to end the ongoing war that began in late February with US and Israeli airstrikes. While the US claims talks are ongoing, Iran denies direct negotiations. The US proposal, reportedly a 15-point plan, demands Iran cease nuclear weapons development, dismantle related facilities, limit its missile program, stop funding regional proxies, and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. In return, all international sanctions would be lifted. Iran has offered a five-point counter-proposal, the details of which remain vague, though it rejects key aspects of the US plan. The US has neither confirmed nor denied the full details of its proposal.

In March 2026, amidst the ongoing war between the US/Israel and Iran, the US, under President Trump, reportedly sent a 15-point ceasefire plan to Iran via Pakistan. The plan aims to establish a one-month ceasefire for negotiations to end the conflict, which began in late February and has caused significant casualties, disrupted shipping, and roiled global markets. Iran has consistently denied engaging in talks with the US, dismissing Trump's claims of productive conversations. The war was initiated by the US and Israel while negotiations with Iran were ongoing. Iran's response included closing the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on US assets, leading to soaring oil prices. While reports of the US plan have slightly calmed markets, the possibility of successful negotiations remains uncertain due to the conflicting demands of both sides.

Amid ongoing conflict, Iran rejected a US ceasefire proposal, offering its own negotiation plan, though stating it has "no intention of negotiating for now." Despite this, President Trump claimed Iran desires a deal but fears internal and external repercussions. China urged dialogue between the US and Iran, seeing a "glimmer of hope for peace." Israel conducted strikes across Iran, including in Isfahan, targeting Iranian infrastructure. Kuwait arrested six individuals allegedly involved in a Hezbollah plot to assassinate Gulf leaders. The US military reported hitting over 10,000 targets in Iran, claiming significant damage to Iranian naval and missile capabilities.

Amidst escalating conflict, Israel intends to occupy a portion of southern Lebanon up to the Litani River, establishing what Defence Minister Israel Katz calls a "security zone." This area constitutes approximately one-tenth of Lebanon. Katz announced the plan at a meeting with the military chief of staff. Hezbollah, the Iran-backed Lebanese group, views this potential occupation as an "existential threat" and has vowed to resist any Israeli troop presence south of the Litani. The group stated that they will confront what they see as aggression and defend their land. Katz previously warned Lebanon that failure to disarm Hezbollah could result in territorial losses.

Amidst ongoing Middle East tensions, Iran has reportedly dismissed a US proposal for a ceasefire and denied engaging in negotiations, despite claims from the White House that talks are ongoing. Iranian officials stated they have no plans for negotiations. The US, through Pakistan, presented a 15-point proposal to Iran. Meanwhile, other key developments include Israel conducting strikes in Iran, Hezbollah rejecting truce talks, and reports of Russia sending drones to Iran. The UN chief has called for an end to the "out of control" war, while Israel is reportedly expanding its occupation of southern Lebanon. The situation remains volatile, with the US warning of severe consequences if talks fail.

Amidst escalating tensions and strikes across the Middle East in late March 2026, the US, through Pakistani intermediaries, proposed a ceasefire plan to Iran, which was rejected. Iran dismissed the US attempts at negotiation, with a military spokesperson claiming the US was only negotiating with itself. The US press secretary stated that talks were ongoing, but threatened further strikes if unsuccessful. These developments occurred as the US prepared to deploy additional troops to the region. Recent events included a drone attack on Kuwait International Airport, and strikes in Tabriz, Iran.

Amidst ongoing conflict initiated by a US-Israeli attack on February 28, 2026, Iran's negotiating position appears to have strengthened. Despite claims from the US and Israel that Iran's military capabilities have been significantly degraded, Iran has demonstrated its ability to retaliate, including attacks on Qatar's gas site and Israeli cities. Indirect communication channels between the US and Iran have been established through Egypt, Turkiye, and Pakistan. Iran now seeks not only a ceasefire but also long-term economic and security guarantees, including payment repatriations, assurances against future attacks, and a new regulatory framework for the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts caution that Iran will likely seek concessions that the US and Gulf nations will be unable to agree to.

On March 24, 2026, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for the annexation of southern Lebanon. In a public speech, Smotrich advocated for extending Israel's border to the Litani River. He stated that the Litani River should become Israel's new northern border with Lebanon, similar to the buffer zone in Gaza. This would effectively mean the occupation of southern Lebanon by Israel. The stated rationale behind this proposal was not included in the article.

Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that Israeli troops will control a large buffer zone in southern Lebanon as part of its campaign against Hezbollah. This action follows escalating conflict, including Hezbollah rocket fire into northern Israel in retaliation for the killing of an Iranian leader and near-daily strikes on Hezbollah. Israeli troops have reportedly blown up five bridges on the Litani River, approximately 30km from the border. Katz stated that displaced Lebanese residents will not be allowed to return south of the Litani River until northern Israel's safety is guaranteed. The aim is to create a defensive space, eliminate Hezbollah terrorists, and destroy their infrastructure, mirroring strategies used in Gaza. Since the conflict began, over 1,000 people have been killed in Lebanon and over a million have been displaced.

Amid escalating regional conflict, Israel announced plans to seize parts of southern Lebanon to create a "defensive buffer" up to the Litani River, prompting condemnation from Hezbollah, who called it an "existential threat". This announcement followed Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's call to "apply sovereignity" to areas in southern Lebanon. Tensions between Lebanon and Hezbollah also rose after the Lebanese government expelled Iran's ambassador, urging Hezbollah to halt attacks on Israel. An Iranian missile, reportedly heading towards Cyprus, was intercepted over north Lebanon, causing damage. Simultaneously, Israel continued airstrikes on Iran.

President Trump claimed "very good" talks with Iran were underway, potentially mediated by Pakistan, to avert a U.S. bombing ultimatum regarding the Strait of Hormuz. This announcement came shortly before U.S. markets opened, amidst concerns about Iran's closure of the strait. Trump vaguely described the deal's terms, including preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and potential regime change. However, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the reported Iranian interlocutor, denied any negotiations and accused Trump of manipulating markets. Despite the denials, Iran acknowledged receiving messages from friendly countries, including Pakistan, suggesting a renewed diplomatic push involving regional powers like Egypt and Turkey. The goal appears to be de-escalation and preventing further economic damage.

Reports suggest that backchannel talks between the United States and Iran are unlikely to produce a peace deal, with Chinese analysts citing unmet core conditions for a ceasefire. Conflicting accounts exist regarding the talks, with Iran dismissing reports of discussions with former Trump aide Steve Witkoff as false. Several countries, including Oman, Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan, are reportedly attempting to mediate a ceasefire between the US and Iran. Pakistan is considered a potential location for direct talks, though the White House has not confirmed US participation, describing the situation as fluid. The reasons behind the unlikelihood of a peace deal are the unmet core conditions for a ceasefire.

Amidst an ongoing war that began in late February 2026, the possibility of negotiations between the U.S. and Iran has emerged, though Iran denies any talks are underway. The U.S., under President Trump, has presented a 15-point plan to Iran through Pakistan, while Pakistan, Egypt, and Gulf Arab nations are attempting to facilitate discussions. Despite these efforts, Israel vows to continue attacks, and military deployments from both the U.S. and Iran are increasing, suggesting an escalation of the conflict. The U.S. war objectives have shifted, including degrading Iran's missile capabilities, preventing nuclear weapon development, and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. While Trump hints at engagement with Iranian leaders, Israel maintains the goal of regime change in Iran.

Amidst ongoing US and Israeli air raids and Iranian retaliatory attacks, the possibility of talks between the US and Iran to end the conflict has emerged. While some Iranian officials deny any negotiations, the US claims discussions are underway. The BBC reports on the divided opinions within Iran regarding these potential talks. Government supporters and officials largely echo the sentiment against negotiating with the US. However, other Iranians, while desiring an end to the war, are wary of a deal that would preserve the current Islamic government's power. They fear the regime, even weakened, would maintain control over the population. The situation is further complicated by government-imposed internet outages, limiting access to information for ordinary citizens.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump claimed that the US and Iran were engaged in productive negotiations to end the war that began with Israel a month prior. However, Iranian officials have denied that any such talks have taken place. Trump's announcement coincided with the start of the US trading week, leading to speculation that his claims were intended to calm financial markets amidst fluctuating oil prices. An Iranian parliamentary speaker refuted Trump's claims, accusing the US of spreading "fakenews" to manipulate markets and escape their current predicament. Iran's strategy appears to be to inflict economic pain on the US as a deterrent against future attacks.

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called for Israel to annex southern Lebanon up to the Litani River, as Israeli attacks on Lebanon intensify in March 2026. Smotrich's statement follows increased Israeli military actions, including air strikes and ground incursions, aimed at rooting out Hezbollah fighters after rockets were launched towards Israel following the start of the US and Israel’s war on Iran in late February. These attacks have targeted residential buildings and infrastructure, displacing over 1.2 million Lebanese civilians. The UN and humanitarian groups report dire consequences for Lebanese civilians, with over 1,000 deaths and thousands wounded since early March. Concerns are rising about a potential intensified ground invasion after attacks on bridges connecting southern Lebanon to Beirut.

A U.N. official warned that Iran is threatening to strike desalination plants across the Middle East within days, potentially triggering a regional water crisis and global economic fallout. The threat is in response to President Trump's warning that the U.S. would target Iranian power infrastructure if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. Iranian officials stated that if their energy infrastructure is attacked, they will target U.S. and regional desalination infrastructure. Desalination plants in Qeshm Island and Bahrain have allegedly already been struck. The destruction of these plants, critical for providing drinking water in arid regions, could have catastrophic and lasting consequences.

Amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East, Iran threatened on Monday to attack electrical plants across the region if the U.S. bombs Iranian power stations. This threat puts at risk electrical supplies and water in Gulf Arab states, which often combine power stations with desalination plants. Iran's Fars news agency published a list of potential targets, including the UAE's nuclear power plant. The warning follows Iranian missile strikes targeting Dimona in Israel over the weekend, near a facility suspected of being linked to Israel's atomic weapons program. The Israeli facility was not damaged in the attack.

Donald Trump extended a deadline regarding Iran by five days, claiming productive talks between the US and Iran had occurred. Trump suggested a potential deal to end the conflict was possible. However, Iran denied these claims, stating no talks with the US have taken place since the recent bombing campaign. The extension followed heightened tensions, including threats from both sides regarding shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and potential retaliatory attacks. Several countries, including Oman, Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan, are reportedly involved in efforts to mediate. Despite Trump's claims, violence continues across the Middle East.

Following "good and productive conversations" with Tehran, former President Donald Trump announced on Monday that he has ordered the US military to postpone strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure for five days. This decision comes after Trump issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran on Saturday, demanding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz or face obliteration of its power plants. Iran threatened to close the strait, a critical oil transit point, and retaliate against energy facilities in Israel and Gulf countries. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that if the US attacked, they would target power plants supplying US bases and economic infrastructure where Americans have shares. Iran also threatened to mine Gulf shipping routes if its southern coast was attacked.

According to sources, Donald Trump approved a joint US-Israeli operation against Iran after a phone call with Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu reportedly urged Trump to authorize a "decapitation strike" targeting Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his key lieutenants, who were believed to be meeting in Tehran. Netanyahu argued this was a unique opportunity to eliminate Khamenei and retaliate for alleged Iranian plots to assassinate Trump, including a 2024 murder-for-hire scheme. The intelligence suggesting the meeting had been moved forward prompted Netanyahu to push for the strike, despite Trump's previous opposition to such military interventions. The operation was approved less than 48 hours before its commencement.

Following renewed conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, Israeli forces struck the Qasmiyeh Bridge in southern Lebanon, a vital crossing over the Litani River. Lebanese President Aoun condemned the attack, viewing it as a potential precursor to a ground invasion and an attempt to create a buffer zone along the Israeli border. The Israeli Defence Minister stated the strategy of targeting bridges and homes near the border aimed to neutralize threats, similar to tactics used in Gaza. These actions followed Hezbollah's rocket fire into Israel in response to the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The Israeli army chief indicated the operation against Hezbollah was just beginning and would be prolonged.

Israeli forces struck the Qasmiyeh bridge in southern Lebanon on Sunday, a key route connecting the south to central Lebanon. This action follows a statement by Israel's defense minister that Israeli forces were instructed to destroy crossings over the Litani river used by Hezbollah for reinforcements. The strikes have raised concerns among Lebanese citizens that Israel intends to isolate southern Lebanon, potentially hindering the return of displaced families. The ongoing conflict has already displaced over a million people, raising fears of a humanitarian crisis. The BBC is reporting on the situation from Lebanon.

On Sunday, an Israeli civilian was killed near the Lebanese border, with initial reports indicating a rocket from Lebanon was the cause. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for an attack on Israeli soldiers in the same area. However, the Israeli military is investigating the possibility that the fatal fire originated from its own forces. In response, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz ordered the destruction of bridges over Lebanon's Litani River, alleging their use by Hezbollah, and an increase in the demolition of houses. The investigation is ongoing to determine the precise cause of the civilian's death.

In March 2026, Iranian missiles struck the Israeli towns of Arad and Dimona, near a nuclear research center, wounding at least 180 people. Iran stated the attack was retaliation for an Israeli strike on its Natanz nuclear facility. The incident marks a potentially more lethal phase in the ongoing Israeli-United States war on Iran, which began on February 28 and has already injured thousands in Israel. Analysts suggest the attack raises questions about whether Israel has underestimated Iran's military capabilities, particularly its extensive and varied missile program. Iran's missile arsenal includes short, medium, and long-range ballistic and cruise missiles.

In March 2026, Iranian missiles struck the Israeli cities of Dimona and Arad, injuring at least 180 people and damaging buildings. The strikes followed an earlier attack on Iran's Natanz nuclear enrichment facility, for which Israel denied responsibility. Israel's military reported that its air defense systems failed to intercept the missiles, marking the first time Iranian missiles penetrated defenses near Israel's nuclear research center located approximately 20km from Dimona. The UN nuclear watchdog stated it had not received reports of damage to the Israeli center or abnormal radiation levels. The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned that such strikes posed a "real risk of catastrophic disaster throughout the Middle East".

On Saturday, an Iranian missile struck Dimona, an Israeli town housing a nuclear facility, while a second missile hit Arad. The Israeli military confirmed a direct hit on a building in Dimona, despite the use of air defense interceptors. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed continued strikes against Iran following what he described as a "very difficult evening," referencing the missile strikes that wounded scores of people. Iranian state television claimed the missile attack on Dimona was a retaliatory response to an earlier strike on Iran's nuclear site at Natanz. The extent of the damage in Dimona included a large crater, rubble, and damaged surrounding buildings.

On March 21, 2026, Iran struck the Israeli cities of Dimona, home to a key nuclear facility, and nearby Arad, wounding at least 180 people. The Iranian government stated the missile strikes were retaliation for an earlier attack on its Natanz nuclear enrichment complex. Israeli officials reported that air defense systems were activated but failed to intercept all missiles. The attack marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Iran and the US-Israel alliance, which has been ongoing for four weeks. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue attacking Iran in response.

Iran launched a missile attack on the Israeli town of Dimona, near a nuclear facility, claiming it was retaliation for an alleged Israeli strike on its Natanz nuclear site. The Israeli military confirmed a direct missile hit on a building in Dimona, resulting in injuries and damage. Iran accused the US and Israel of targeting the Natanz enrichment complex, while Israel stated it struck a facility in Tehran linked to nuclear weapon development. The UN nuclear watchdog chief called for military restraint to prevent a nuclear accident. The United Arab Emirates also reported aerial attacks after Iran warned against allowing attacks from its territory.

Amidst a conflict involving the US and Israel, Iran has stated that Japanese ships will be permitted to transit the Strait of Hormuz. This announcement follows earlier threats from the IRGC to block the waterway to enemy vessels, effectively halting traffic. According to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, the strait remains open to non-hostile nations, and Iran is willing to provide safe passage to Japanese ships upon request and coordination. Japan relies heavily on the Strait of Hormuz for its crude oil imports from the Middle East. Recently, some ships from countries like China, India, and Pakistan have been allowed to pass through the strait, using a "safe corridor" near the Iranian coastline.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran is willing to help Japanese ships safely navigate the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil shipments. Araghchi clarified that the strait remains open, though restrictions have been placed on vessels from countries involved in attacks against Iran. He emphasized that Iran is seeking a complete end to the war, not just a ceasefire. Japan relies heavily on Middle Eastern oil, with most of it passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Araghchi mentioned ongoing discussions with Japan's Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi regarding navigation through the strait, but details were not disclosed.