【Japanese Foreign Minister Holds Phone Call with Iranian Foreign Minister Requesting Restraint】On the 16th, Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono held a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif regarding the conflict between Iran and Israel, stating, "Any actions that could lead to further escalation should be restrained, and all parties involved are requested to exercise maximum restraint." Both sides agreed to continue close dialogue for regional peace and stability. Zarif claimed that Israel launched a preemptive attack to prevent an agreement between Iran and the United States on nuclear negotiations. Kono requested Iran's assistance in protecting local Japanese nationals, to which Zarif responded, "We will provide full cooperation." Relevant officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Kono is also coordinating to hold a phone call with the Israeli side. (Japan Kyodo News)