[Title] Press Conference by Prime Minister ISHIBA Shigeru Regarding What Was Discussed during the National Security Council Meeting Convened on the Situation in the Middle East and Other Matters

(With regard to what was discussed during the National Security Council meeting convened in response to the Middle East situation and the directions given to relevant ministers, on whether or not the Government of Japan will support the recent strikes on Iran conducted by the United States, in the context of today's National Security Council discussions; and, in light of the Government dispatching a Japan Air Self-Defense Force transport plane to Djibouti yesterday, on whether or not the strike by U.S. forces will affect or alter plans for the upcoming evacuation of Japanese nationals)

Just now, I convened the National Security Council Four Ministers meeting, where we discussed the situation in the Middle East. While I will refrain from divulging the details of our discussions, I have already directed the ministries and agencies concerned to gather information thoroughly and take all possible measures to ensure the safety of Japanese nationals.

As for the strikes conducted by the United States, we are still working to confirm the relevant facts, and we are monitoring changes in the situation closely and with grave concern. Japan believes that it is of paramount importance to de-escalate the situation as soon as possible.

Japan has consistently maintained the position that it is absolutely unacceptable for Iran to possess nuclear weapons. The critical point in evacuating Japanese nationals is that they are able to evacuate safely, and this situation does not change that in the slightest. The Government will do everything in its power to ensure that the evacuation of Japanese nationals is conducted effectively, regardless of what circumstances arise.

This concludes my remarks.