Japan, Germany and New Zealand welcome US-Iran agreement Leaders from Japan, Germany and New Zealand welcomed the agreement between the United States and Iran, expressing hope that it would lead to broader regional stability and progress on Tehran’s nuclear programme. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi described the agreement as “a major step” and said she hoped the memorandum of understanding would be implemented steadily, ensuring “free and safe navigation” through the Strait of Hormuz and paving the way for a final agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz congratulated the leaders of Iran and the United States, saying the agreement could pave the way for a broader diplomatic breakthrough.