The Japanese government said Wednesday that a Japanese citizen has been detained in Tehran, Iran, since Jan. 20 and has formally demanded their swift release from Iranian authorities, officials announced. Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Masanao Ozaki confirmed the detention at a press briefing, but declined to provide additional details about the individual’s identity or the circumstances, citing privacy concerns. Ozaki said Tokyo remains in contact with the detainee and their family and is offering necessary support while pressing Iran for a resolution.
Although the Japanese government has not publicly identified the detained person, several foreign media outlets report that the individual may be the Tehran bureau chief of Japan’s public broadcaster NHK, widely believed to be Shinnosuke Kawashima, and that Iranian authorities have transferred him to Evin Prison, a facility known for holding political detainees and foreign nationals, according to sources familiar with the matter. The exact charges or allegations, if any, have not been disclosed.
Iran’s state institutions have not formally confirmed the detention or provided an official explanation. NHK issued a statement saying it “always acts with the safety of its staff as the top priority,” but declined to comment on specific reports because it could not verify them independently. With large‑scale protests and heightened security operations ongoing in Iran, journalists and other foreigners have faced increased risk of detention.
Tokyo’s demand comes amid growing international concern for foreign nationals held in Iran, and the Japanese government is urging Tehran to expedite the release of its citizen and provide clarity on the situation. The ministry reiterated that it will continue diplomatic engagement while safeguarding the well‑being of its national.