Iran has threatened South Korea that any military participation in the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz would have “serious consequences”, amid reports that Seoul is considering contributing forces to international efforts to secure navigation through the strategic waterway.
Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said on Monday that relations between Tehran and Seoul had developed over more than 64 years on the basis of mutual respect.
Baqaei said Iran valued its relations with South Korea but warned that any foreign military presence in the Gulf or Strait of Hormuz would be viewed as direct support for the US.
He said Iran was defending itself against what he called US aggression and responding to US “war crimes against women and children”.
“No sovereign and responsible country should succumb to US pressure and intimidation,” Baqaei said on X.
Seoul reviews possible deployment
South Korea’s foreign ministry said on Monday that Seoul was communicating with the international community, including relevant countries, over restoring stability in the Middle East and ensuring the free passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.
Yonhap News, citing diplomatic sources, reported that Seoul had maintained open channels with Tehran as discussions over a possible deployment continued.
US President Donald Trump has increased pressure on Seoul to contribute to efforts to secure navigation through the strait, according to the report.
A South Korean presidential official said on Friday that no final decision had been made and that a review was ongoing.
The official said Seoul could consider contributing to international efforts to ensure freedom of navigation as long as such a move did not compromise South Korea’s defence readiness.
Local broadcaster SBS reported that preparations were being made for a potential deployment involving P-8 maritime patrol aircraft, an explosive ordnance disposal team and a logistics support ship.
Any deployment would require approval from South Korea’s National Security Council and Cabinet, as well as consent from the National Assembly.
South Korea is a US treaty ally and hosts about 39,000 US troops on the Korean Peninsula, according to Trump.
