TOKYO - One of two Japanese nationals detained in Iran has been released and returned to Japan on March 22nd, while diplomatic efforts continue to secure the release of the remaining individual.
Foreign Minister Motegi announced the release during an appearance on a television program on March 22nd, stating that he had strongly urged Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to address the matter, leading to the detainee’s release on March 18th.
Motegi: "Regarding one individual, I made a strong request to Foreign Minister Araghchi, and the detention was lifted, resulting in the individual’s release on March 18th."
The individual, who had been detained since June 2025, returned to Japan at around 8:30 a.m. and is reported to be in good health, according to the Foreign Ministry.
The second Japanese national, believed to be the Tehran bureau chief of NHK, was detained in January 2026. Motegi stated that efforts are ongoing to secure an early resolution, adding that the government is working closely with the individual and their family.
According to the Foreign Ministry, the released individual first traveled overland to neighboring Azerbaijan after being freed on March 18th local time, before boarding a flight and arriving in Japan on the morning of March 22nd.
The government continues to press for the release of the remaining detainee, with Motegi having held telephone talks twice this month with his Iranian counterpart to request the release of both individuals.
Source: FNN
