Iran threatens South Korean assets if Seoul joins Hormuz mission

Iranian academic Mohammad Marandi has issued a warning to South Korea, stating that the nation would be considered an enemy and could face retaliation from Tehran if Seoul participates in efforts to restore freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking on Al Mayadeen’s The Grand Standoff, Marandi cautioned that Tehran would aim to destroy whatever South Korean assets are located in the region, including military and economic installations.

These targets could extend beyond military sites, posing a significant threat to South Korean economic interests in the Persian Gulf. Marandi's comments come as South Korea weighs potential naval contributions to the mission, with various options, including combat participation, noncombat roles, and search operations, currently under consideration.

However, no decision has been made, and Seoul is still seeking approval from its parliament. The debate has been fueled by US President Donald Trump's criticism of Seoul for not backing the US war on Iran, which has strained the US-South Korea alliance. South Korea's economy is heavily reliant on the Strait of Hormuz, as the country imports 61 percent of its crude oil and 54 percent of its naphtha from shipments traversing the waterway.