As South Korea considers a potential deployment to the Hormuz Strait, the situation has become increasingly complex. This follows reports that the United States and Iran are attempting to engage in dialogue, with Iran recently indicating through a mediator that it could reopen the Strait within seven days, contingent on the easing of U.S. military pressure and the lifting of port blockades.
According to reports from the Associated Press and other outlets, President Donald Trump announced on September 22 during the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York that U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff met with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif. Trump described their discussions as "very good and productive" and stated that another meeting is scheduled soon.
He emphasized that reaching an agreement would benefit Iran, asserting, "That would be preferable." Trump also presented Iran with two choices: "one is total destruction, and the other is the potential to be great. Iran can be a great nation."
Trump expressed optimism that an agreement could be reached shortly after the upcoming midterm elections in November, indicating a willingness to negotiate amid growing concerns over the burden of a potential conflict with Iran.
This development could influence South Korea's considerations regarding deployment to the Hormuz Strait. While the government has not confirmed any deployment, the Ministry of National Defense has begun practical reviews, including a visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to assess operational conditions for potential troops.
Experts suggest that if South Korea proceeds with the deployment, it could strengthen trust between South Korea and the U.S. and improve relations with key Gulf nations such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, which are significant partners in energy supply and defense. However, there are concerns about deteriorating relations with Iran, which has warned that South Korea could face consequences if it decides to deploy.
In response to Iran's objections, a Foreign Ministry official stated, "The government is closely communicating with the international community, including relevant countries, to restore peace and stability in the Middle East and ensure the free passage of all vessels, including ours, in the Strait of Hormuz."
Foreign Minister Park Jin also recently spoke with Zarif, reiterating South Korea's consistent position that the free and safe passage of all vessels, including South Korean ships, must be guaranteed in the Strait of Hormuz and that South Korea will continue to participate in international efforts to ensure this.
In related news, the Blue House announced that President Yoon Suk Yeol held a 30-minute meeting with President Trump during the UN General Assembly. However, it was reported that the issue of Hormuz deployment was not discussed during this meeting.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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