Iran warns South Korea against involvement in Strait of Hormuz operations

Iran has warned South Korea that any military involvement in the Strait of Hormuz would carry “serious consequences,” sharply raising the stakes over Seoul's consideration of a role in US security operations.

South Korea said on Friday that it was considering “contributions” to US efforts in the strategic waterway. Seoul said it would do so only if its own military readiness remained intact, and stressed that no decision had been made.

On Monday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei accused South Korea of facing “US pressure and intimidation.” He said any military deployment or participation by other countries in the Persian Gulf or Strait of Hormuz would amount to direct support for the party responsible for the aggression.

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serious consequences

Iran and the United States have continued exchanging fire in and around the strait, despite an April ceasefire that ended the initial intense bombardment campaign. Negotiations have stalled as the two sides compete for control of the waterway, which normally carries about one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports.

Traffic has been virtually paralyzed since the war began, disrupting energy markets worldwide. Iran has required vessels to seek permission before transiting, rejecting a return to the pre-war system of unrestricted navigation. Washington and several regional countries oppose the measure.

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US pressure and intimidation