Iranian National Oil Company has approached several Japanese firms with offers to supply oil,looking to strengthen ties with what Tehran calls a "friendly country." But diplomatic sources in Tokyo see these deals as unrealistic now, given ongoing geopolitical tensions and safety issues in Strait of Hormuz .
Japan was major importer of Iranian oil until 2019,when sanctions from Trump's administration cut off those imports. Since then,Iranian officials have been actively reaching out to foreign companies,including those in Japan and South Korea,to restart oil sales. Despite these moves,Japanese companies like Cosmo Energy Holdings and ENEOS remain silent on the offers .
A Japanese government spokesperson said there's "no benefit in buying [Iranian oil]" right now,echoing the cautious approach of Japanese firms amid complex international dynamics .
Iran sees potential oil exports to Japan as positive step,especially after recent memorandum with the U.S. aimed at easing hostilities. The June 28 agreement includes promises to halt conflicts on various fronts,including Lebanon . Talks in Switzerland,backed by Qatar and Pakistan,reportedly took place in a constructive mood…setting stage for more technical discussions .
Iran continues to work its diplomatic angles,hoping for Japanese investment in its energy sector. But it all hinges on how recent U.S . agreements play out.
