Takaichi to ‘Act in Japan’s Interests’ at Trump Meeting, Vows to Protect Lives of Japanese People

The Yomiuri Shimbun

16:54 JST, March 18, 2026

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said Wednesday that she will act in accordance with Japan’s national interests concerning the Iran war when she meets with U.S. President Donald Trump later this week.

Takaichi was scheduled to depart for Washington on Wednesday evening for her meeting with Trump.

“As the situation [concerning Iran] changes daily and U.S. messaging evolves, I will be the first among G7 leaders to meet directly with President Trump,” she told the House of Councillors Budget Committee on Wednesday morning.

Regarding how she will convey Japan’s efforts concerning the situation in Iran, she said, “I will clearly convey our country’s position and respond appropriately in accordance with our national interests.”

Regarding a potential request from the United States to dispatch naval vessels to the Strait of Hormuz, Takaichi said: “Nothing has been decided. We will consult closely with relevant countries, including the United States, carefully assess the current situation and consider necessary measures within the bounds of the law.”

Regarding the Japan-U.S. summit, she said, “I intend to engage in thorough discussions with the primary focus on maximizing our national interests and protecting the lives of our citizens,” indicating her intention to make strengthening security and economic cooperation the main agenda of the summit.