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.
