Iran warns South Korea of “serious consequences” over any military role in Hormuz

Iran has warned South Korea that any military participation in the Persian Gulf or Strait of Hormuz would bring “serious consequences.” The warning came amid reports that Seoul is considering sending forces to international efforts aimed at securing navigation through the strategic waterway.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said relations between Tehran and Seoul had developed over more than 64 years on the basis of mutual respect. He said Iran valued those ties but would regard any foreign military presence in the Gulf or Hormuz as direct support for what Tehran describes as US aggression.

Baqaei urged South Korea not to give in to US pressure. He said participation in regional military operations could make Seoul “complicit” in what Iran describes as aggression and crimes against Iran.

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serious consequences

South Korea’s Foreign Ministry said it was maintaining close communication with the international community and relevant countries. Seoul said it wanted to help restore regional stability and ensure the free passage of all vessels, including South Korean ships, through the Strait of Hormuz.

South Korean media, citing diplomatic sources, reported that Seoul was keeping channels open with Tehran while examining a possible military contribution. A presidential official said no final decision had been made and that any deployment would have to preserve South Korea’s own defense readiness. SBS reported that preparations could involve P-8 maritime patrol aircraft, an explosive ordnance disposal team and a logistics support ship. Such a deployment would require approval from the National Security Council and Cabinet, as well as consent from the National Assembly. South Korea is a US treaty ally and hosts about 39,000 US troops on the Korean Peninsula, according to US President Donald Trump.

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complicit