Seoul: Foreign Minister Cho Hyun on Monday urged his Iranian counterpart to ensure safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing the need to de-escalate tensions and stabilize global energy supplies amid the ongoing Middle East conflict, as reported by the foreign ministry.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Cho communicated these concerns during a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The conversation comes in the wake of U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran last month, which have since evolved into a broader regional crisis. Cho expressed his alarm over the situation, highlighting its impact on global security and economic stability, and urged Iran to cease attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure in Gulf countries.
Cho also requested that Iran implement necessary safety measures for multiple South Korean and foreign-flagged vessels currently anchored in the strait. Additionally, he sought Iran's cooperation to ensure the safety of South Korean citizens residing in the Middle East. In response, Araghchi outlined Iran's stance on the ongoing regional tensions, with both parties agreeing to maintain open lines of communication on these issues.
The situation has significantly disrupted oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, nearly halting them and causing global oil prices to surge. South Korea, which relies on imports for approximately 98 percent of its fossil fuels, sources about 70 percent of its crude oil from the Middle East, highlighting the potential impact on the nation's energy security.
Meanwhile, Second Vice Foreign Minister Kim Jina on Monday directed overseas missions and relevant government agencies to closely monitor energy facilities in the Middle East. Kim advised South Koreans in nearby areas to evacuate, in light of U.S. President Donald Trump's warning that the United States would "obliterate" Iran's power plants unless Tehran lifts its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours.
Iran, on its part, has threatened to target regional power plants and deploy naval mines in the Persian Gulf if the U.S. proceeds with its threat, as per foreign media reports. "We should use all available channels to frequently issue safety notices and continue to strongly recommend that the people there leave or evacuate the region," Kim stated during a government task force meeting focused on protecting overseas Koreans.
The South Korean Embassy in Iraq has announced that about 20 nationals, including embassy staff, are set to evacuate to neighboring countries on Monday and Tuesday. The embassy will aid their departure in coordination with the Iraqi government and border checkpoints, ensuring their safe exit from the region.