Seoul: South Korea is actively engaging with the international community to ensure the safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, as stated by the foreign ministry. This initiative follows a warning from Iranian academic Mohammad Marandi, who suggested that Tehran might perceive Seoul as hostile if it joins a U.S.-led security effort in the region.
According to Yonhap News Agency, South Korea's foreign ministry emphasized its ongoing communication with global partners to restore peace and stability in the Middle East and ensure the free passage of vessels. The ministry's statement highlights the importance of maintaining diplomatic channels with Iran to promote regional stability.
Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei expressed concerns over any military presence in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, warning of serious consequences. Although his statement did not specifically mention South Korea, he underscored Iran's longstanding diplomatic ties with Seoul.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has urged South Korea to contribute militarily to securing navigation through the strait. In response, South Korea is reviewing options for potential collaboration with countries such as Britain and France, with a focus on noncombat roles and search-and-rescue operations.
A senior official from Seoul's presidential office confirmed that no decision had been made regarding military deployment, emphasizing a comprehensive review of various options. The military is considering deploying assets like maritime patrol aircraft and unmanned systems for mine detection.
The potential deployment has faced opposition from some lawmakers and civic groups in South Korea. Under the country's law, any overseas military deployment requires parliamentary approval.