South Korea mulls ‘contributions’ in Strait of Hormuz

Seoul has been heavily affected by the closure of the strategic waterway, and come under heavy US pressure for participation against Iran.South Korea is mulling “contributions” to the freedom of navigation ⁠in the Strait of Hormuz, the presidential office said.The office said in a statement released on Friday that various options regarding providing assistance in securing the strategic waterway were being considered.Recommended Stories list of 4 itemslist 1 of 4South Africa to Australia: Why coal profits are surging during Iran warlist 2 of 4Alarm in South Korea as Iran dispute with Trump rattles a 72-year alliancelist 3 of 4After six months of war, what have US, Iran gained and lost?list 4 of 4Asia looks to store oil, gas closer to home after Strait of Hormuz crisisend of listThe United States has been pressuring Seoul and other allies over their refusal to join its war against Iran, which has seen Tehran limiting maritime traffic in the strait – a key route for global oil supplies.Local broadcaster JTBC reported on Thursday that South Korea’s government was “leaning toward” dispatching troops to the strait and reviewing details ahead of seeking parliamentary approval.The presidential office was eager to state that no decision has yet been made, although that effort appeared to spread further confusion.An unnamed official told reporters that “nothing has been decided” and that Seoul would consider domestic legal procedures, military readiness and parliamentary approval.“South Korea may be able to make military contributions to global efforts to ensure free navigation through the strait, as long as such contributions do not compromise its military readiness,” the official said.The president’s office then issued a statement saying: “References made during today’s briefing regarding military contributions – such as combat participation, non-combat roles, and search operations – were merely general descriptions of various options.“Please be advised that nothing has been decided yet concerning actual contributions,” it added.Any military deployment by South Korea requires a decision by the National Security Council, a resolution at a cabinet meeting, and consent from the National Assembly.