Japanese Media: Japan Sets 3 Conditions for Sending SDF to Strait of Hormuz

(CNA, Tokyo, 7th, Comprehensive Foreign Report) Japanese media cited sources today, disclosing that the Japanese government will only dispatch the Self-Defense Forces to the blockaded Strait of Hormuz if three conditions are met: first, a ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran; second, communication with Iran; and third, a reduction of threats on site.

Kyodo News reported that specific tasks include clearing abandoned mines and protecting civilian vessels. However, the report noted that with continued tensions between the United States and Iran, it appears quite difficult to dispatch the SDF to this global energy chokepoint.

The report pointed out that during an online defense ministers' meeting co-hosted by the United Kingdom and France on May 13, Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi mentioned the three conditions. He also noted at the time that fulfilling these conditions is necessary for a "multinational mission" in the Strait of Hormuz to gain broad support, while stating that "communication with the United States is quite important."

Minesweeping before a ceasefire is considered an act of war against the country that deployed the mines, which is equivalent to the overseas dispatch of troops prohibited by the Japanese constitution.

After the online defense ministers' meeting in May, a joint statement issued by the British government also took into account Japan's legal restrictions. Regarding the dispatch of troops, it explicitly stated that it will be "in full compliance with national constitutions."

Kyodo News pointed out that the Japanese government is continuously evaluating specific dispatch plans, considering the possibility of a future ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran. Among the options, minesweeping is seen as the most likely mission. If a ceasefire agreement is reached, Japan can dispatch its forces based on the "Self-Defense Forces Act." (Compiler: Yang Wei-ching) 1150607