TEHRAN -- Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe called peace "necessary" for the Middle East during a historic trip to Iran Wednesday, as he aims to dial back tensions with the U.S. and push Tehran to adhere to the 2015 nuclear deal.
During historic trip, prime minister leverages unique position to ease tensions

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani welcomes Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tehran on June 12. The two leaders discussed the 2015 nuclear deal, among other topics. © Reuters
TEHRAN -- Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe called peace "necessary" for the Middle East during a historic trip to Iran Wednesday, as he aims to dial back tensions with the U.S. and push Tehran to adhere to the 2015 nuclear deal.