(Provisional translation by an external company for reference purpose only)
The exchange of attacks between Israel and Iran is still ongoing, and the situation in the Middle East is becoming increasingly tense. The Ministry of Defense (MOD) and the Self-Defense Forces (SDF) have been making utmost efforts, including collecting information, also from the standpoint of ensuring the safety of Japanese nationals in the region. Amid these developments, and considering the current situation in the Middle East, at 9:30 a.m. today, the Minister for Foreign Affairs requested me to commence the necessary preparations for transporting Japanese nationals and others. In response, a short time ago, at 10:25 a.m., I ordered the Commander of the JSDF Joint Operations Command (C-JJOC) to deploy SDF transport aircraft and necessary personnel to the Republic of Djibouti in order to ensure that Japanese nationals and others are transported swiftly if necessary. As soon as the arrangements are complete, we plan to send two Air Self-Defense Force C-2 transport aircraft from Japan to the Republic of Djibouti as quickly as possible. Ensuring the safety of Japanese nationals overseas is an important responsibility of the government. The MOD/SDF will do everything we can with a strong sense of urgency to secure the safety of Japanese nationals in the region, working closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant ministries and agencies. Staff will be providing the details shortly.