Japan and U.S. defense chiefs discuss Iran in first known call since war began

Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth discussed in a phone call Tuesday the situation surrounding Iran.

Hegseth explained the latest developments and the future outlook regarding the Middle Eastern country.

Koizumi said that Tokyo is closely monitoring the situation with great interest in order to ensure the safety of Japanese nationals.

The two also agreed during the 20-minute phone call to maintain close communication. The call was their first known discussion since the United States and Israel attacked Iran.

On the same day, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met with U.S. Ambassador to Japan George Glass. Ahead of her U.S. visit later this month, Takaichi said she looks forward to reaffirming the unwavering Japan-U.S. alliance.

Takaichi is slated to attend a summit with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington on March 19.

Glass said that the bilateral alliance is stronger than ever, and reaffirmed Washington's commitment to realizing a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Takaichi and Glass also exchanged views on the situation involving Iran.