South Korea to deploy military mission to help keep Hormuz open

South Korea's defence ministry plans to bolster its maritime security efforts in the Strait of Hormuz by deploying maritime patrol aircraft and an explosive ordnance disposal team. The move is aimed at ensuring the waterway remains open, despite the ongoing US-Iran conflict which has disrupted shipping and energy supplies. The Cheonghae anti-piracy naval unit, which currently operates in the Gulf of Aden, will have its operational area extended to waters near Hormuz, pending parliamentary approval.

The additional troops will safeguard South Korean citizens and economic interests, but will not engage in combat or target Iranian territory. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has previously stated that South Korea will not deploy troops for military intervention in the Iran war, adhering to a policy of non-involvement and non-intervention.