Diversifying its energy sources has been Japan’s “objective and headache” since 1973, noted Kuni Miyake, director and special advisor at Tokyo-based think-tank Canon Global Research Institute.
“There have been many reasons for Americans not to export oil from Alaska for domestic or environmental reasons. But it’s time to explore that with war in the Gulf,” he added.
Politics and international studies professor Stephen Nagy from the International Christian University pointed out that Japan has already “opened many opportunities” to get energy resources from Alaska and other parts of the US.
Meanwhile, Takaichi also spoke to her Canadian counterpart Mark Carney during his trip to Tokyo earlier this month about energy and critical minerals.
“Will Japan shift its position from Canada to the United States? There’s a strong possibility, as the US is for Japan the most important and critical partner for its peace and stability,” Nagy told CNA’s Asia First.
He added that Trump will likely “ask the Japanese to do something” in relation to the Strait of Hormuz, and Takaichi will respond that there are limits in Japanese law as to what it can do.
“I think there’s a possibility for Japan to provide some refuelling missions to the US, as long as it’s not directly involved in conflict,” Nagy said.
“But again, Japan has to look at involvement in the strait through its domestic law, and whether or not this is the best choice for Japan. And until there is a clear objective established by President Trump … I think it’s going to be difficult to pull Japan into the conflict in Iran in whatever capacity,” he added.
