Tokyo: Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi discussed the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran during a phone call with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Japan's Defense Ministry said.

According to Anadolu Agency, regarding the situation in Iran, Hegseth explained the latest developments and the outlook for the ongoing situation in the Middle East, the ministry said in a statement. Tensions in the Middle East surged after February 28 when the US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran. Iranian authorities reported that the attacks killed about 1,300 people, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Iran responded with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and several Gulf countries hosting US military assets. At least seven US service members have been killed in the conflict.

Koizumi stated that Japan is closely monitoring developments with grave concern to ensure thorough information gathering and the protection of Japanese nationals. He added that Japan is ensuring the utmost warning and surveillance around Japan.