Japan’s prime minister said a Japanese-related vessel has safely passed through the Strait of Hormuz and exited the Persian Gulf, calling it a positive development amid concerns over maritime security.

She said the vessel cleared the strait on April 29 and is now heading towards Japan, with three Japanese crew members on board.

The prime minister added that Japan has repeatedly urged Iran to help ensure the early restoration of free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz for vessels of all countries, including Japan, and that she had conveyed this position directly to President Masoud Pezeshkian.

She added the government would continue engaging with Iran to ensure that remaining Japanese-related vessels, as well as those of other countries, can transit the strait safely.