TOKYO, June 19 (HS/RIA Novosti) - Japan views the signing of the US-Iran memorandum as a major step toward resolving the situation, but has not yet made any decision on deploying self-defense forces to the region amid developments around the Strait of Hormuz, Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said on Friday.

Japan welcomes the signing of the memorandum as a major step towards resolving the situation. As for sending self-defense forces, nothing has been decided, Koizumi said at a press conference when asked about the possible deployment of self-defense forces to the Strait of Hormuz after the signing.

Japan will carefully cooperate with its ally, the United States, as well as with other interested countries and consider the necessary measures within the framework of international and domestic law, the minister said.

On Sunday, Iran and the United States confirmed that work on a memorandum of understanding had been completed. Overnight into June 18, Iran and the United States remotely signed the document that provides for an end to the military conflict that began on February 28.

The memorandum will give the two countries 60 days to negotiate a final deal on the Iranian nuclear issue and US sanctions. Additionally, it sets a timeline for the United States to lift its naval blockade, and for Iran to restore shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar