South Korea weighs ‘contributions’ to Hormuz as US pressure mounts
If carried out, the deployment would mark South Korea’s first dispatch of troops overseas at the request of the US in 22 years
The government has reportedly drawn up plans to deploy military assets, including a naval logistics support ship and P-8A maritime patrol aircraft, to the strait.
If carried out, the deployment would mark South Korea’s first dispatch of troops overseas at the United States’ request in 22 years, since the Zaytun Division was sent to Iraq in 2004.
The Chosun newspaper, citing an official at the presidential office Cheongwadae, reported on Friday that Seoul was considering the deployment, which would require approval from the National Assembly.
“We have repeatedly discussed ways to make substantial contributions to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, and in fact, such contributions would include military involvement.”
