Iran Threatens South Korean Assets If Seoul Joins Strait of Hormuz Mission
Iranian academic Mohammad Marandi has warned that Tehran could target South Korean economic and military interests across the Persian Gulf if Seoul joins a US-led mission to secure navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
Speaking on Al Mayadeen, Marandi said Iran would consider South Korea an enemy if it participated in the war or contributed forces to efforts aimed at reopening the vital waterway.
He warned that Iranian retaliation could extend beyond military installations to South Korean assets in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE and Qatar.
The warning comes as South Korea considers possible military and naval contributions to restore freedom of navigation through Hormuz. Seoul’s presidential office said no final decision had been made, with options including combat and non-combat roles, search operations and other forms of support.
Reports have suggested that South Korea could consider deploying a P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, a naval logistics support ship and an explosive ordnance disposal team. Any deployment would require approval through South Korea’s domestic political process.
The debate comes amid pressure from Washington for Seoul to support efforts around the Strait of Hormuz. South Korea relies heavily on the waterway for energy supplies, making the potential mission particularly sensitive for Seoul.
