Politics
Dozens of South Korean citizens have opposed a possible military deployment to the Strait of Hormuz and urged the government not to get involved in the war between the United States and Iran
Dozens of South Korean citizens have opposed a possible military deployment to the Strait of Hormuz and urged the government not to get involved in the war between the United States and Iran. According to AFP, protesters gathered near the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, holding placards with messages calling on South Korea to “stay out of the war.” They also chanted slogans saying that the country’s young people should not be sent to war. Pressure is mounting from U.S. President Donald Trump on South Korea to play a role in maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz. However, Seoul has not yet made a final decision on sending troops. South Korea has also sent an assessment team to the United Arab Emirates to evaluate the situation.
The South Korean government says it is considering different ways to help protect maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz and global supply chains. However, no final decision has been made on a military deployment. Meanwhile, Iran has warned that any South Korean military presence in the Strait of Hormuz or participation in U.S. operations would be considered support for Washington and could have “serious consequences.” Growing opposition in South Korea to possible military involvement has made the decision more sensitive for the government, as any military deployment would also require parliamentary approval.
