Trump praises Takaichi as Japan joins Hormuz security efforts

U.S. President Donald Trump praised Japanese politician Sanae Takaichi ahead of a US-Japan summit, highlighting Japan's 'stepping up to the plate' on Iran by joining a European-led joint statement on securing the Strait of Hormuz.

Following his recent reversal on requesting Japanese warships for the Strait of Hormuz, U.S. President Donald Trump praised Sanae Takaichi ahead of a US-Japan summit, stating Japan is 'stepping up to the plate' on Iran, according to The Japan Times on March 20, 2026.

Tokyo joined European countries in a joint statement expressing readiness 'to contribute to appropriate efforts' to secure the vital oil chokepoint amid US-Iran tensions. This diplomatic move underscores evolving US-Japan cooperation on regional security, with the upcoming summit expected to address these issues alongside alliance strengthening.

This development builds on recent US pressure and Tokyo's cautious responses regarding Self-Defense Forces involvement.

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Diplomatic handshake between Trump and Japanese PM Takaichi at White House, background map of Strait of Hormuz showing U.S. ships only amid reversal on Japan naval support.
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Trump reverses call for Japan warships in Strait of Hormuz amid Iran tensions

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Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met U.S. President Donald Trump at a summit, avoiding a rift over Iran for now. While Japan dodged direct U.S. criticism, experts say the meeting's success should not be overstated. The leaders announced a second round of projects from Tokyo’s $550 billion pledge.

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Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met U.S. President Donald Trump in Tokyo on October 28 for their first summit, informing him that Japan intends to continue importing Russian liquefied natural gas for the time being. The U.S. had urged Japan to end such imports to bolster sanctions on Russia, but Takaichi stressed the necessity due to risks of domestic power shortages. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral ties and defense cooperation.

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