Kishida expresses condolences over the death of Iranian President Raisi; Japan observes the impact on the Middle East

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expressed his condolences on Monday over the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and several officials in a helicopter crash.

“I am deeply saddened by the sudden passing of HE Ayatollah Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi,” Kishida said in a statement. “Based on the long-standing friendly relations between Japan and Iran, I have had a series of candid discussions with President Raisi on the bilateral relationship between Japan and Iran, as well as the regional situation, through summits and telephone calls.”

The impact on Iran could also have an impact on the broader situation in the Middle East. Japan has traditionally focused on diplomacy based on its friendly relations with Iran.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi said at a news conference: “We have attached importance to peace and stability in the Middle East and will continue to observe the situation there.”