South Korea preparing Hormuz military deployment, reports say

South Korea is reportedly considering deploying military assets to the Strait of Hormuz, according to government and military sources cited by South Korean media. The deployment, which could include a maritime patrol aircraft, a logistics support vessel, or a mine detection and clearance unit, aims to support freedom of navigation in the strategically important waterway.

Government sources say procedures are being put in place to seek parliamentary approval for the deployment, with a consent motion expected to be submitted to parliament this month following cabinet review. The potential deployment is being discussed with several countries, including the United States, Britain, and France. However, the presidential Blue House in South Korea has denied reports that a decision on the deployment has been finalized, stating that Seoul is still exploring practical ways to contribute to freedom of navigation in the strait.

US President Donald Trump had previously suggested that the US was scaling back joint military exercises with South Korea due in part to the country's reluctance to assist in the war against Iran.