Iran has warned South Korea against deploying troops or participating in United States-led security operations in the Strait of Hormuz, saying such involvement could have “serious consequences.”
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei issued the warning after Seoul said it was considering contributing to US security efforts in the strategic waterway.
Daily Post had reported that South Korea stated on Friday that it was reviewing possible contributions to the US-led efforts, provided such involvement would not compromise the readiness of its own military. Seoul, however, stressed that no final decision had been taken.
Tehran has maintained significant control over the Strait of Hormuz since the outbreak of its war with the United States on February 28, heightening tensions around one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes.
In a post on X, Baghaei accused Washington of using pressure and intimidation to push other countries into supporting its operations.
He warned that any military deployment or participation by foreign countries in the Persian Gulf or Strait of Hormuz would be viewed by Iran as direct support for what it described as the party responsible for the aggression.
“Any military deployment or participation in operations by other countries in the Persian Gulf or the Strait of Hormuz can only be regarded as direct support for the party responsible for that aggression and will have serious consequences,” Baghaei said.
The warning comes amid heightened tensions surrounding the Strait, through which a significant share of global oil and gas shipments passes, making any disruption to maritime traffic a potential concern for international energy markets.
Iran warns South Korea against involvement in US security operations in Hormuz