Japan Urges Iran to Keep Strait of Hormuz Transit Free of Additional Fees

Japan has urged Iran to ensure that international ships can continue passing through the Strait of Hormuz without facing additional transit fees. The request came during a 20-minute phone conversation between Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday, August 13, 2026.

According to reports, Prime Minister Takaichi emphasized that navigation through one of the world's busiest maritime routes should remain free, safe, and open for all international vessels. She also stressed that no extra charges should be imposed on ships using the strategic waterway.

Why the Strait of Hormuz Matters

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most critical shipping routes in the world. Located between Iran and Oman, it connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.

Nearly 20% of the world's oil supply passes through this narrow waterway every day. It is also a major route for liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports from Gulf countries.

Because of its importance, any disruption or increase in shipping costs through the Strait of Hormuz can have a direct impact on global energy prices, international trade, and supply chains.

Japan's Concern Over Additional Transit Fees

Japan relies heavily on energy imports from the Middle East, with approximately 95% of its crude oil imports coming from the region. Most of these shipments travel through the Strait of Hormuz.

During the conversation, Prime Minister Takaichi expressed Japan's concern over reports suggesting that Iran could introduce additional transit fees for commercial vessels. She stated that maintaining free navigation is essential for global trade and energy security.

Japan believes that imposing extra charges could increase transportation costs, raise fuel prices worldwide, and create uncertainty for international shipping companies.

Call for Diplomacy and Regional Stability

In addition to discussing maritime navigation, the Japanese prime minister called for efforts to reduce tensions in the Middle East.

She encouraged diplomatic dialogue between Iran and the United States, including continued discussions regarding Iran's nuclear program. Japan emphasized that peaceful negotiations remain the best path toward maintaining regional stability and protecting international commerce.

Iran's Response

Iran has indicated that discussions regarding shipping arrangements are continuing and that specific details about transit fees are not currently part of ongoing negotiations with Oman.

While speculation about new shipping charges has attracted international attention, Iranian officials have suggested that talks remain focused on broader maritime cooperation rather than finalized pricing policies.

Global Impact of the Strait of Hormuz

The Strait of Hormuz is often described as the world's most important energy corridor. Any restrictions, military tensions, or additional costs imposed on vessels passing through the route can affect:

• Global oil prices
• LNG exports
• International shipping costs
• Supply chains
• Energy security for importing countries such as Japan, South Korea, India, and many European nations

Governments and businesses around the world closely monitor developments in the region because even minor disruptions can have significant economic consequences.

What This Means for Global Trade

Japan's latest message highlights the importance of keeping international sea lanes open and ensuring freedom of navigation. As one of the world's largest energy importers, Japan has a strong interest in maintaining uninterrupted access to Middle Eastern oil and gas supplies.

The discussion between Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and President Masoud Pezeshkian underscores growing international attention on the future of the Strait of Hormuz. Whether through diplomacy or regional cooperation, many countries hope the waterway will remain open, secure, and free from additional transit costs.