Statement by Ambassador of Japan on the attack on a UAE-Flagged cargo ship captured by the Yemen-based Houthis

With regard to the the attack on a UAE-flagged cargo ship captured by the Houthis off the coast of Yemen on January 2, following is the statement issued after the incident by Akio ISOMATA, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the United Arab Emirates:

Japan is deeply concerned that the incidents that impede the free navigation of ships have occurred amid continued tensions in the Middle East region, and strongly condemns the capture of the UAE flagged cargo ship by the Houthis.
The Peace and stability of the Middle East region and the security of navigation are extremely important for Japan and the international community. Japan will continue to make active diplomatic efforts to ease tensions and stabilize the situation in the Middle East region in cooperation with the international community.