Iran warns South Korea against involvement in Hormuz

On Monday, the Iranian foreign ministry issued a stern warning to South Korea, urging the country against any military participation or deployment in US operations within the Strait of Hormuz. The ministry's spokesperson, Esmaeil Baqaei, claimed that such involvement would lead to "serious consequences." South Korea had initially expressed interest in contributing to US security efforts in the strategic waterway, which Tehran has largely controlled since the war against the United States began on February 28.

However, Seoul noted that they would consider such a move only if it did not compromise their military readiness. As of Monday, no decision had been made. The foreign ministry spokesperson accused the US of exerting pressure and intimidation on South Korea, stating that any military action in the Persian Gulf or Strait of Hormuz would be seen as direct support for the aggressor and would have severe repercussions.

Tensions between Iran and the United States have persisted in and around the Strait of Hormuz even after a ceasefire in April ended the initial intense bombardment campaign. Negotiations between the two adversaries have hit a dead end as they vie for control over Hormuz, which accounts for approximately a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas exports.

Since the outbreak of the war, traffic through the vital waterway has been severely restricted, causing significant disruptions to global energy markets. Iran has demanded that vessels seek permission to pass through, a demand that has been met with opposition from Washington and several regional nations, stating that there will be no return to the pre-war system of unrestricted navigation.