Japan on Sunday said Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons, calling for restraint and dialogue. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said Tokyo has consistently supported talks between the United States and Iran to resolve tensions.

According to AP, Kihara urged Iran to halt nuclear weapons development and other actions that could destabilize the region. He stopped short of openly backing the recent US attack on Iran, emphasizing instead the importance of diplomacy and de-escalation.

AP reported, Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said Japan is preparing to dispatch troops to help evacuate about 200 Japanese nationals still in Iran. He provided no further operational details but said Tokyo will work with the international community to maintain regional stability.