Government spokesman Minoru Kihara said the Japanese embassy in Iran had verified the release and that Japan’s ambassador had met the individual in person after their detention ended.

“The Japanese embassy in Iran has confirmed that a Japanese national who was detained by Iranian authorities on January 20 was released on April 6 local time,” Kihara told reporters, adding the individual’s health condition had been confirmed as stable.

Japan’s NHK was reported by Kyodo News to have identified the detainee as its Tehran bureau chief, although the broadcaster did not immediately confirm the report when contacted.Media reports earlier said the individual had been transferred to a prison known for holding political detainees following their arrest in January.

Japanese officials had previously acknowledged the detention but declined to provide further details at the time.

The release marks the second such case in recent weeks, after Tokyo announced last month that another Japanese national had been freed by Iranian authorities.

Surging global fuel prices are placing mounting pressure on households and small businesses across continents, with workers and entrepreneurs reporting rising costs, shrinking incomes and difficult trade-offs in daily life.

On a small dairy farm north of Auckland in New Zealand, a farmer managing 200 cows said higher diesel and petrol costs are eroding already tight margins. The farm consumes around 900 litres of diesel and up to 300 litres of petrol each month to operate tractors, machinery and quad bikes. Recent price increases have added more than NZ$1,200 to monthly expenses, translating to over NZ$15,000 annually.

The farmer said the burden extends beyond direct fuel use. Contractors charge more for their services and fertiliser prices have risen by about 40%, compounding operational costs. With commodity prices largely dictated by markets, the farmer said there is little scope to pass on higher costs, forcing decisions to delay maintenance and investment.

In Port Vila, bus driver Daniel Thomas described similar pressures in the transport sector. Driving from early morning until late evening, he earns about A$120 a day but expects that rising fuel prices could reduce his take-home income significantly. With vehicles requiring frequent refuelling and air-conditioning essential in tropical temperatures, Thomas said higher costs may force drivers to raise fares despite concerns about passenger affordability.

Across Vanuatu, many drivers are servicing loans on their vehicles, increasing financial vulnerability. Thomas said without fare increases, drivers may struggle to meet repayments, highlighting the limited options available to absorb cost shocks.In South Korea, the response has included policy measures to reduce fuel consumption.

Kim Hooin, a public sector worker commuting from Cheongju to Sejong, said mandatory vehicle restrictions introduced in late March have altered daily routines. Under the system, government employees are prohibited from driving one day a week based on licence plate numbers, encouraging greater use of public transport.

Kim said he now takes the bus daily, extending his commute time but reducing fuel expenses. At work, he manages government vehicles and said usage is being tightly controlled, with electric vehicles prioritised where possible. The government has also promoted broader energy-saving measures, including reduced water and electricity use, framing the campaign as a collective response to economic pressures.

In rural Surin Province, small-scale trader Teerayut Ruenrerng said fuel shortages and price increases have disrupted both supply chains and daily operations. Running a mobile grocery business, he often visits multiple fuel stations to secure limited quantities of diesel. Inconsistent access has made it difficult to plan routes and maintain regular sales.

Ruenrerng said rising input costs, including higher prices for meat, produce and packaging, have reduced profits by up to 20%. Supply disruptions mean that orders are frequently only partially fulfilled, forcing adjustments to inventory and pricing. He has increased some retail prices but said doing so risks losing customers in already constrained markets.

In Tokyo, Koichi Matsumoto, who operates a traditional bathhouse established by his family in the 1930s, said energy costs are a growing concern. Although the business switched from oil to gas five years ago, heating expenses remain high and are expected to increase further if global energy markets tighten.

Bathhouse operators face additional constraints, including regulated pricing set by local authorities. Matsumoto said admission fees cannot be raised freely, limiting the ability to offset rising costs. With declining customer numbers and ageing infrastructure, he said many similar establishments are weighing whether to continue operating.

In Sydney, interior designer Belinda Morgan said uncertainty linked to global energy markets is affecting demand in the construction sector. She said projects have slowed as clients delay spending decisions, prompting her to seek additional work and cut household expenses.

The family is reassessing routine activities, including discretionary travel, to conserve fuel and money.In Delhi, warehouse worker Rajesh Singh described a more acute impact, with rising cooking gas prices and food inflation forcing him to reduce meals. Earning about 12,000 rupees per month, he said essential expenses including rent and food have surged, leaving little room for savings. He reported eating once a day in recent weeks and borrowing money to manage basic needs.

Singh said several colleagues have already left the city due to rising costs, and he is considering returning to his home village if conditions do not improve. The situation reflects broader pressures on low-income urban workers facing simultaneous increases in energy, housing and food prices.

In Beijing, taxi driver Cui Xinming said fuel price increases have added to the strain of long working hours. Driving up to 12 hours a day, he said rising costs are a concern but expressed confidence in government measures to stabilise prices. He noted that China’s investment in alternative energy and electric vehicles could reduce reliance on oil over time.

Cui said he is considering leaving the profession due to fatigue and changing economic conditions, highlighting how cost pressures are influencing career decisions in addition to daily finances.

Across regions, the accounts point to a common pattern: rising fuel costs are feeding through supply chains, increasing the price of goods and services while compressing incomes. For many, the adjustments involve reducing consumption, raising prices where possible, or reconsidering long-term plans in an increasingly uncertain economic environment.

During his stay in Japan, Macron signed a cooperation roadmap covering critical minerals and defense, and held talks with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, alongside a meeting with the imperial couple.

He also praised Europe’s “predictability,” in comments widely interpreted as a contrast with recent U.S. policy decisions.The remarks followed criticism from Trump, who described France as “very unhelpful” in the Iran conflict and made personal jibes at Macron.

The exchange highlights growing transatlantic friction as the war continues to reshape global alliances.Macron’s visit to South Korea comes amid heightened geopolitical and economic uncertainty, particularly linked to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy supplies.

The waterway’s effective closure has driven up oil prices and strained import-dependent economies across Asia.South Korean President Lee Jae Myung called for deeper cooperation with France in an opinion article, emphasizing collaboration in artificial intelligence, nuclear energy, hydrogen technologies and space.

“In an increasingly fragmented and uncertain international environment, partnerships between democratic nations are becoming strategically essential,” Lee wrote.

Seoul has already introduced a fuel price cap to cushion the economic impact of rising energy costs, marking its first such intervention since 1997.Macron’s itinerary in South Korea includes a bilateral summit with Lee, participation in an economic forum, and a visit to a Korean War memorial honoring French troops.

The trip also features cultural engagements, including a dinner with figures from the country’s film and music industries.

The visit underscores France’s effort to deepen ties in the Indo-Pacific while navigating diplomatic strains with Washington over the direction and handling of the Iran conflict.

An individual claiming to be an active-duty officer of the Japan Self-Defense Forces scaled a wall and entered the Chinese Embassy in Tokyo earlier in the day, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a regular press briefing.

Lin said the individual admitted the act was illegal and threatened to kill Chinese diplomatic personnel “in the name of God,” prompting what Beijing described as shock and concern over the safety of its staff.

China called on Japan to conduct a thorough investigation, hold those responsible accountable and ensure the security of Chinese embassies and consulates.

JJapan’s defence ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the incident or the alleged affiliation of the individual involved.

The incident comes against a backdrop of deteriorating relations between China and Japan. Tensions have risen since Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested that a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan could prompt a military response from Tokyo.

Japan is also expected to downgrade its description of bilateral ties in an upcoming diplomatic report, citing a series of confrontations over the past year, while Beijing has reiterated calls for Tokyo to withdraw what it views as provocative remarks.

In Japan, where life expectancy ranks among the highest globally, researchers and policymakers have long examined the cultural and social practices that contribute to longevity.

According to data from the World Health Organization, Japan’s average life expectancy exceeds 84 years, placing it consistently at the top of global rankings. Government statistics from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare attribute this outcome to a combination of dietary patterns, healthcare access, and social structures that support ageing populations.

One focal point of research has been Okinawa, a southern prefecture often cited in longevity studies due to its high concentration of centenarians.

Academic studies conducted by institutions such as the National Institute of Health and Nutrition indicate that residents in Okinawa have historically maintained lower rates of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers compared to national averages, although these trends have begun to shift in recent decades.

Japanese dietary habits have been identified as a central factor in long life expectancy. Traditional meals emphasize fish, vegetables, soy-based products, and fermented foods, with relatively low consumption of red meat and processed items.

Researchers often cite the practice of “hara hachi bu,” a cultural guideline originating in Okinawa that encourages eating until one is approximately 80% full. Studies published by the Japanese government’s health agencies suggest that this approach contributes to lower caloric intake and reduced rates of obesity.

National data indicates that Japan’s obesity rate remains among the lowest in developed economies. According to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, adult obesity prevalence is below 5%, significantly lower than in many OECD countries.

Public health officials link this outcome not only to diet composition but also to portion control and meal structure, which typically includes multiple small dishes rather than a single large serving.Nutrition researchers at the National Institute of Health and Nutrition have also highlighted the role of fish consumption, which provides omega-3 fatty acids associated with cardiovascular health.

Fermented foods such as miso and natto are widely consumed and are believed to support gut health, although ongoing research continues to examine their long-term effects.

Beyond diet, social structures play a measurable role in Japan’s longevity profile. Studies examining ageing populations emphasize the importance of community engagement and social cohesion.

In Okinawa, the concept of “moai,” or informal social support groups, has been documented in academic literature as a mechanism for maintaining social ties throughout life. These groups often provide emotional support, financial assistance, and a sense of belonging, particularly among older residents.

Government data indicates that older adults in Japan remain more socially and physically active compared to counterparts in many other developed countries. According to surveys conducted by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, a significant proportion of individuals aged 65 and above participate in community activities, part-time work, or volunteer initiatives.

This sustained engagement is associated with lower levels of social isolation, a factor that global health studies have linked to increased mortality risk.Urban planning and infrastructure have also been cited as contributing factors.

Japanese cities are generally designed to encourage walking and public transport use, leading to higher baseline levels of physical activity. Researchers note that daily movement, rather than structured exercise alone, plays a role in maintaining health over time.

Japan’s universal healthcare system is another key component underpinning longevity. Established in the 1960s, the system ensures broad access to medical services at controlled costs.

According to the World Health Organization, Japan’s healthcare model combines public insurance with regulated pricing, enabling high levels of service utilization without proportionate increases in expenditure.Preventive care is emphasized through regular health check-ups, which are widely available and often subsidized.

Government data indicates high participation rates in screening programs for conditions such as hypertension and certain cancers. Early detection and management of chronic diseases are considered central to extending healthy life expectancy, a metric that Japanese policymakers track alongside overall lifespan.

Pharmaceutical regulation and dietary guidelines are also integrated into national health strategies. The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare periodically updates nutritional recommendations, reflecting evolving research on ageing and disease prevention. Public awareness campaigns reinforce these guidelines, contributing to relatively high levels of health literacy.

Despite these structural advantages, officials have acknowledged emerging challenges. Changes in dietary habits, particularly among younger populations, have been linked to rising rates of metabolic disorders in some regions.

In Okinawa, for instance, recent studies indicate a shift away from traditional diets toward higher consumption of processed foods, coinciding with increased obesity rates.

Japan’s experience has drawn sustained international attention, with policymakers and researchers examining how cultural practices intersect with formal healthcare systems to influence long-term outcomes.

The combination of dietary moderation, social integration, and accessible medical care continues to form the basis of the country’s longevity model, as reflected in both national statistics and global health assessments.

Speaking on a Fuji TV programme, Motegi said such a move would be contingent on a “complete ceasefire” and the presence of naval mines obstructing navigation. He described the scenario as hypothetical, adding that minesweeping could be considered if maritime protection conditions required it.

Japan’s ability to deploy forces overseas is restricted by its postwar pacifist constitution, though security legislation enacted in 2015 allows the use of the Self-Defense Forces if an attack on a close partner threatens Japan’s survival and no alternative measures are available.

Motegi said Tokyo has no immediate plans to negotiate specific arrangements for stranded Japanese vessels to transit the waterway, stressing instead the importance of restoring conditions that allow safe passage for all ships.

Japan relies on the Strait of Hormuz for roughly 90% of its oil imports, underscoring the strategic importance of the route. The strait has been largely closed by Iran during the ongoing conflict, now in its fourth week, contributing to a surge in global oil prices.

The disruption has prompted Japan and other countries to release oil from strategic reserves to stabilise supply.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said on Friday he had discussed with Motegi the possibility of allowing Japanese-linked vessels to pass through the strait, according to Japan’s Kyodo news agency.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump met Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in Washington on Thursday and urged Japan to increase its role in efforts to reopen the waterway. Takaichi said she briefed Trump on the scope of support Japan could provide under its legal framework.

Speaking on a Fuji TV programme, Motegi said minesweeping could be an option if naval mines obstruct shipping lanes following a “complete ceasefire,” stressing that any such step would depend on conditions stabilising in the waterway, a conduit for roughly a fifth of global oil shipments.

Japan’s potential involvement would be constrained by its postwar pacifist constitution, which restricts military activity abroad. However, security legislation enacted in 2015 allows overseas deployment of the Self-Defense Forces if a crisis threatens Japan’s survival and no alternative measures are available.

Motegi said Tokyo had no immediate plans to pursue arrangements to secure passage specifically for Japanese vessels, but emphasised the importance of restoring safe navigation through the strait. Japan relies on the route for around 90% of its oil imports, leaving it highly exposed to disruptions.

The near-closure of the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing conflict has contributed to a surge in global oil prices, prompting Japan and other countries to release crude from strategic reserves.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told Japan’s Kyodo news agency he had discussed with Motegi the possibility of allowing Japan-linked vessels to transit the strait.U.S. President Donald Trump has urged allies, including Japan, to increase their role in securing the waterway, though Tokyo has so far signalled limits based on its legal framework.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said she had briefed Trump on the scope of support Japan could provide under domestic law.

Separately, Motegi said one of two Japanese nationals detained in Iran had been released on Wednesday and would return to Japan. He said the release followed repeated diplomatic representations to Tehran, while confirming that a second Japanese citizen remains in custody.

Recent attacks on oil and gas infrastructure have already driven up prices, raising concerns about inflation, trade disruptions and broader economic slowdown across both advanced and emerging markets.

Across Europe, memories of the economic fallout from the Russia-Ukraine war are shaping concerns about a fresh energy shock.

Germany, with its industry-heavy economy, is particularly exposed to higher energy costs. Although manufacturing activity has shown signs of stabilisation after a prolonged downturn, rising input costs and weaker global demand could weigh on exports. While Berlin has introduced stimulus measures, fiscal constraints may limit further support.

Italy faces similar vulnerabilities, given its large manufacturing base and relatively high dependence on oil and gas in its energy mix.In United Kingdom, electricity prices are closely tied to gas costs, which have risen sharply since the conflict began.

While a price cap may soften the immediate impact on households, economists warn it could lead to prolonged high borrowing costs and strain public finances.

Japan remains highly vulnerable due to its reliance on imported energy, sourcing around 95% of its oil from the Middle East. Nearly 90% of these supplies pass through the Strait of Hormuz, making supply disruptions a critical risk.

The impact is compounded by a weak yen, which increases the cost of imports and adds to inflationary pressures affecting food and household goods.

In the Gulf, the conflict is expected to have a direct economic impact. While higher oil prices would typically boost revenues, disruptions to shipping routes could offset gains if exports are constrained.

Countries such as Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain rely heavily on the uninterrupted flow of hydrocarbons through the Strait of Hormuz.

Any sustained blockage could hinder their ability to access global markets.The conflict could also affect remittance flows from expatriate workers, a key source of income for many households in the region.

Among large emerging economies, India is particularly exposed. It imports about 90% of its crude oil and nearly half of its liquefied petroleum gas, with a significant share transported via the Strait of Hormuz.

Higher energy prices could widen India’s trade deficit, fuel inflation and complicate monetary policy, especially if global financial conditions tighten in response to the crisis.

As energy markets remain volatile, the extent of the economic impact will depend on the duration of the conflict and the degree of disruption to global supply chains.

Organized by the Embassy of Japan, the event took place at the Cultural Palace in the Diplomatic Quarter and reflected the strong friendship, mutual respect, and deep cultural connection between the two nations.

The festival attracted a large and diverse audience, including government officials, diplomats, cultural figures, and business leaders, all of whom gathered to commemorate seven decades of fruitful partnership.

The event served as a cultural bridge, strengthening understanding between the Saudi and Japanese people and celebrating the shared values of innovation, tradition, and respect that have defined their bilateral relations.

Throughout the day, visitors experienced a fascinating blend of traditional and contemporary Japanese culture. The festival featured a series of captivating performances, including Wadaiko drumming, which filled the venue with energy and rhythm, and Kabuki dance, a classical Japanese art form that combines graceful movement with expressive storytelling

. The soothing sounds of Tsugaru Shamisen, a traditional string instrument, added an authentic touch that transported guests to the heart of Japan’s cultural heritage.

Exhibits and workshops introduced visitors to Japanese crafts, calligraphy, origami, and ikebana (the art of flower arrangement), offering hands-on experiences that highlighted the artistry and precision deeply rooted in Japanese culture.

A special section of the festival showcased traditional Japanese clothing, such as kimonos and yukatas, allowing guests to explore the beauty and symbolism behind each garment.

Culinary enthusiasts enjoyed a taste of Japan through food stalls offering authentic dishes like sushi, ramen, and mochi, giving visitors a flavorful glimpse into Japan’s celebrated cuisine.

In addition to cultural displays, the festival also highlighted the growing economic and educational collaboration between Saudi Arabia and Japan.

An exhibition area featured several Japanese companies operating in the Kingdom, reflecting Japan’s active role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals.

These companies showcased their contributions to technology, renewable energy, and industrial innovation, reinforcing the strong economic partnership between the two nations.

Japanese Ambassador Morino Yasunari expressed his pride in the enduring relationship between Japan and Saudi Arabia, noting that their friendship has deepened through mutual respect, collaboration, and shared aspirations for development and peace. He emphasized that the 70th anniversary is not just a celebration of past achievements but a symbol of the new era of cooperation unfolding between the two countries.

Ambassador Yasunari also highlighted the role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening bilateral ties. He said that cultural exchange serves as a bridge that connects people on a deeper level, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation. Through events like the Japan Festival, both nations can continue to learn from one another and build enduring connections that go beyond economic and political collaboration.

The festival’s success reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing openness to global cultural exchange under Vision 2030, which encourages the development of arts, heritage, and international cooperation.

The Kingdom’s emphasis on cultural diplomacy aligns perfectly with Japan’s long-standing tradition of promoting peace and friendship through culture and education.

As visitors explored the festival’s exhibitions and performances, they witnessed the harmony between Japan’s rich traditions and modern innovation—a quality that resonates with Saudi Arabia’s own transformation journey. From art and music to technology and cuisine, the event showcased how both nations are balancing their cultural heritage with forward-looking progress.

The Japan Festival in Riyadh served as more than just a commemoration of diplomatic history—it became a celebration of friendship, creativity, and shared vision.

It reflected how two nations, despite geographical distance, are united by mutual respect, collaboration, and the desire to build a better future together.

By combining culture, education, and innovation, the festival strengthened the foundation for future cooperation and mutual growth, marking a new chapter in the ever-evolving relationship between Japan and Saudi Arabia.

Through events like this, Riyadh continues to affirm its role as a global center for cultural dialogue, welcoming the world to celebrate diversity, heritage, and the power of human connection.

The meeting, held at the Jeddah governorate’s headquarters, reflected the growing partnership between the two nations across various fields, including culture, trade, technology, and sustainable urban development.

Both sides exchanged cordial conversations and discussed areas of mutual interest, reaffirming their shared vision for stronger collaboration and long-term friendship.

The discussion was attended by Japanese Consul General in Jeddah Daisuke Yamamoto and members of Governor Koike’s delegation.

The meeting provided an opportunity to strengthen diplomatic and cultural ties, emphasizing the importance of people-to-people connections and the role of cities as gateways for international cooperation.

The dialogue highlighted how Jeddah, as one of Saudi Arabia’s leading coastal cities, and Tokyo, one of the world’s most dynamic metropolises, share a mutual interest in innovation, smart city development, and sustainable growth.

Governor Koike’s visit to Saudi Arabia formed part of her wider regional tour across the Middle East, showcasing Japan’s dedication to fostering partnerships with Arab countries.

Earlier in the week, she attended the Future Investment Initiative 2025 in Riyadh, where she shared insights on Tokyo’s ambition to become a global financial and creative hub.

During the conference, she joined a panel discussion alongside the renowned creator of “Captain Tsubasa,” Yoichi Takahashi, emphasizing how Japan’s creative industries, particularly manga and anime, can serve as powerful tools for global cultural exchange and tourism development.

Her visit to Jeddah came as both nations continue to explore new opportunities for collaboration in creative industries, renewable energy, education, and tourism.

The meeting also symbolized the strong diplomatic friendship that has long connected Japan and Saudi Arabia, built upon mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to economic progress and innovation.

The discussions reflected optimism about the potential for joint ventures, knowledge exchange, and cultural initiatives that will contribute to the prosperity of both societies.

The meeting between the Tokyo and Jeddah governors highlighted the growing synergy between Japan’s technological expertise and Saudi Arabia’s transformative Vision 2030 agenda.

With Jeddah emerging as a center for tourism and urban modernization, and Tokyo serving as a model for innovation and smart infrastructure, both sides expressed interest in exchanging ideas and strategies to develop sustainable and resilient cities.

They discussed enhancing cooperation in areas such as renewable energy solutions, digital transformation, and cultural heritage preservation.

Governor Koike praised Saudi Arabia’s ongoing development projects, noting the remarkable progress in urban planning, green initiatives, and efforts to create a diversified economy.

She expressed admiration for Jeddah’s vibrant culture and its role as a historical gateway to the Kingdom. In return, Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi commended Japan’s leadership in technology, education, and cultural innovation, acknowledging the importance of collaboration in achieving shared development goals.

The meeting also emphasized the role of cultural diplomacy in building bridges between nations.

Through initiatives such as cultural festivals, student exchange programs, and creative partnerships, Japan and Saudi Arabia aim to deepen mutual understanding and strengthen global cooperation.

Koike’s visit to the region, which included stops in the UAE, Kuwait, and Egypt, demonstrates Japan’s growing engagement with the Middle East and its commitment to long-term collaboration built on trust and respect.

As the meeting concluded, both leaders expressed optimism about the future of Tokyo-Jeddah relations, envisioning a partnership that promotes innovation, creativity, and sustainable growth.

The dialogue reinforced the shared belief that collaboration between cities can serve as a foundation for stronger global relations and mutual prosperity.