HRANA – Japan’s Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary announced that one of the country’s citizens was arrested in Iran on January 20, 2026. He called on Iranian authorities to release the individual immediately.

Masanao Ozaki, Japan’s Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary, stated today, Wednesday, that the Japanese citizen was arrested on January 20, 2026 (30 Dey 1404). Without providing further details, he urged Iranian authorities to promptly release the individual.

Mr. Ozaki added that the government is in contact with the detained person and their family and is providing the necessary support. However, Japanese officials have not been granted permission for an in-person visit.

Fars News Agency, citing certain media outlets, also reported that the detained individual may be Shinnosuke Kawashima, head of the Tehran bureau of Japan’s public broadcaster. This claim has not yet been confirmed by official authorities.