Overview
- Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi told parliament Japan has no plans to send warships now and will act only within Japanese law.
- President Donald Trump first urged allies to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, then said he no longer needs assistance from Japan or others.
- Japan relies on the Middle East for about 95% of its oil, with roughly 70% transiting Hormuz, raising sharp economic risks from disruptions.
- The talks, once centered on trade, now also review a $550 billion investment pledge including a $36 billion first tranche tied to U.S. energy and manufacturing projects as well as potential rare-earth cooperation off Minamitorishima.
- Takaichi seeks deeper defense cooperation by accelerating long-range missiles and signaling interest in the U.S. 'Golden Dome' missile defense system, while voicing concern over U.S. force shifts from the Indo-Pacific.