Japan recently announced that it will not follow US’s coalition into sending security vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, amid the tensions in the area. Yet, Yomiuri Shimbun, Japanese newspaper, reported that Japan is thinking of sending a destroyer to operate in nearby areas.
In mid-July Japan was considering whether Self-Defense Forces troops could participate into the US coalition, but finally rejected this plan. Yet, Japan plans to share any intelligence gathered in the operation with forces involved in the American effort.
The Japanese newspaper added that the Japanese effort would include retasking that are already present in the area, in comparison to adding new assets to the region.
Moreover, following limitations on military activity under Japan’s post-WWII constitution, Japan would classify the operation as a survey and search activity, with the aim of collecting information.
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The paper added that the mission’s scope would not include the Strait of Hormuz unless Iran consents to a Japanese presence. Japan has a positive relationship with the Iranian government, and it has so far attempted to balance American demands for a contribution to the coalition with its desire to maintain ties with Tehran.
The last update concerning the Strait of Hormuz situation sees the EU considering the establishment of the concept of a Coordinated Maritime Presences in certain areas of strategic interest to the European Union.
