Lee Jae-myung, the President of South Korea, regarding the dispatch of military forces to the Strait of Hormuz said: "No dispatch of forces that would involve conflict or intervention in the war will take place." These remarks were made at a press conference on Friday and reflect Seoul's cautious approach to security developments in the region.
No intervention in the war
Lee further emphasized that the dispatch of forces to participate in the war or military intervention is not on the agenda at all. He added: "We have adhered to this principle so far, and there will be no change in the future." These statements come as concerns about maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz have increased due to tensions in the region.
Read more: The European Union allocates 3.3 billion euros for Ukraine
Minimal measures for protection
The President of South Korea also announced that, like other countries, minimal measures must be taken to protect commercial ships and oil transport routes. He reminded: "It is clear to us that we must protect the security and lives of our citizens." These statements reflect Seoul's emphasis on taking preventive measures against potential threats.
Lee Jae-myung also referred to the status of the "Cheonghae" unit, which is currently stationed in the region and ready to respond to threats against maritime security and South Korean citizens. He specified that they are reviewing and consulting on ways to strengthen these capabilities.
Reviewing the dispatch of a research team
The South Korean Ministry of Defense recently announced the dispatch of a research team to the Strait of Hormuz to assess the security situation. At the same time, the ministry rejected reports of a request from the United States for the deployment of South Korean military equipment in this waterway. The Office of the President of South Korea also described claims of a deadline set by the United States for the dispatch of equipment to the Strait of Hormuz as incorrect.
Ismail Baqai, an Iranian diplomat, wrote in a message in Korean on the social media platform X: "Iran and South Korea have a relationship that spans over 64 years and has always been based on mutual respect." He also emphasized that Iran values its friendly relations with South Korea highly.
Baqai further warned that given the current conditions, any operational participation or military presence of other countries in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz could be seen as direct support for the aggressor and would have serious consequences.
Read more: Jordan and France sign a military agreement · The Security Council holds an emergency meeting on developments in Bab al-Mandab
