Cheonghae Unit to take local tactical orders in int'l operations

Korea's anti-piracy Cheonghae Unit will follow tactical orders from an on-site commander during international maritime security operations near the Strait of Hormuz, a newly disclosed motion reveals. This shift in command structure will replace Seoul's military leadership, as previously reported. The decision was made following the Cabinet's approval, which was then submitted to the National Assembly to broaden the unit's operational range from the Gulf of Aden to waters south of Oman.

The expansion comes in response to U.S. pressure on allies to secure the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint that has been a focal point in the ongoing tensions with Iran. Iran has warned that Korea might be perceived as an accomplice in any U.S. military aggression, despite Seoul's insistence that the mission will remain separate from the conflict.

According to the mission, Korea will maintain overall command authority, with the Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman overseeing the escort missions for Korean vessels. However, an on-site commander will have tactical control during operations conducted by the Combined Maritime Forces or the European Union.