South Korea Weighs Military Deployment To Strait Of Hormuz Amid U.S. Pressure

South Korea is considering deploying military assets to the Strait of Hormuz amid pressure from US President Donald Trump for Seoul to support efforts to secure navigation in the region.

Local media reports said preparations were underway for a possible deployment, which could include a P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft and a naval logistics support ship. However, South Korea’s presidential office said “nothing related to the matter has been decided”, while confirming that discussions were ongoing.

The government said it was exploring ways to contribute to restoring freedom of navigation and promoting stability in the Middle East.

Any new deployment would require approval from the national security council, cabinet and National Assembly.

South Korea relies heavily on the Strait of Hormuz for its energy supplies, with more than 90 percent of its primary energy imports passing through the waterway.

The reports come amid growing tensions between Seoul and Washington after Trump criticised South Korea for declining to provide support over Iran.