FM Cho tells Iran no decision made on possible Hormuz deployment during ministerial talks

Foreign Minister Cho Hyun conveyed to his Iranian counterpart on Friday that Seoul has not yet decided on the possibility of deploying military assets to the Strait of Hormuz, according to officials. This statement came during phone discussions between Cho and Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, as South Korea is currently evaluating options to aid in securing the critical waterway amid growing U.S. pressure.

Iran has firmly opposed any foreign military involvement in the region. During the talks, Cho expressed his deep concern over the recent developments in the Middle East and voiced his hope that a lasting peace and stability would be achieved. Cho emphasized South Korea's unwavering stance that the free and secure passage of all vessels through the Strait of Hormuz must be maintained, and reiterated South Korea's ongoing involvement in international efforts to restore freedom of navigation in this vital waterway.

He made it clear that Seoul has not yet reached a decision regarding any potential deployment and stressed that this matter remains under consideration.