Seoul: The South Korean government announced that an explosion and fire aboard the Namu, a cargo ship operated by South Korea's HMM, in the Strait of Hormuz were "caused by an external strike." A Foreign Ministry spokesperson revealed that two unidentified airborne objects struck the stern of the vessel at intervals of about one minute, indicating a deliberate attack.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the ministry remains uncertain about whether Iran was responsible for the attack. Investigators plan further analysis of debris recovered from the scene. Although the ministry did not officially identify the attacker, the incident's location within Iran's sphere of influence and the summoning of the Iranian ambassador suggest possible Iranian involvement.
Speculation about Iran's involvement emerged early, as the country has previously conducted strikes in the region against US and other nations' naval vessels. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump attributed the incident to an Iranian attack, although a senior South Korean official stated that the explosion's cause remains unknown and requires thorough investigation.
South Korea has avoided using the term "attack" in its communications, raising questions about intelligence sharing. Iran's state-run Press TV reported a South Korean ship targeted for violating maritime regulations, but the Iranian Embassy in Seoul dismissed the report as unofficial.
South Korea's investigation confirmed the attack and suggested that Iran's hard-line military, possibly operating independently, might be responsible. Foreign Minister Cho Hyun emphasized the need for a closer examination of the strike while urging the government not to delay the investigation process.
The attack on the Namu poses a significant threat to South Korean safety, necessitating a firm government response. If further investigation implicates Iran, Seoul should protest strongly and demand preventive measures. With South Korean vessels still in the Persian Gulf, assurances of safe passage through the strait are essential, along with potential participation in international coalition initiatives for Hormuz.