KUALA LUMPUR - Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said that the government is working hard to protect Japanese nationals in the Middle East following US-Israeli strikes on Iran, last Monday.

“We are working closely with relevant countries to respond to the situation, including intelligence gathering.

“We are making every effort to protect Japanese nationals throughout the region, including Iran’s neighboring countries, and to monitor the situation on sea and air routes,” Takaichi said at a House of Representatives Budget Committee meeting attended by all Cabinet members.

Foreign Minister, Toshimitsu Motegi said there are about 200 Japanese nationals in Iran and around 7,700 in neighboring countries. 

“We will provide thorough evacuation support if necessary,” he said.

Regarding Japanese vessels in the area after reports that Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, Takaichi said, “We have confirmed that all crew members are safe.”

Takaichi reiterated Japan’s position that Iran’s nuclear and missile development cannot be tolerated.

“Japan strongly urges a stop to any actions that destabilize the region, including attacks on neighboring countries, and calls for a diplomatic solution, including negotiations,” the prime minister said.

She added that Japan will make every diplomatic effort in cooperation with the international community to calm the situation.

On Japanese nationals in Israel, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said the local embassy plans to operate a bus for them to leave the country as early as today, Japan time.