Cho Hyun Speaks with Iranian Foreign Minister, Explains "No Decision Made on Troop Deployment"

Amid ongoing controversy surrounding the deployment of troops to the Strait of Hormuz, Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Hyun held a telephone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on the afternoon of the 11th.

As the South Korean government carefully reviews whether to dispatch troops to the Strait of Hormuz as requested by the United States, the call was arranged at the request of Minister Araghchi.

A Ministry of Foreign Affairs official explained, "During the call, Minister Cho conveyed our stance that no decision has been made regarding the troop deployment, and emphasized that it is important for freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz to be restored at the earliest possible date."

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Minister Cho expressed deep concern over the recent situation in the Middle East and stated his expectation that sustainable peace and stability would be restored in the region.

In particular, he emphasized that South Korea maintains a 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 the country has continuously participated in international efforts to ensure free navigation within the strait.

Minister Cho also asked for attention to the safety of South Korean nationals abroad, while Minister Araghchi explained Iran's position on the current situation in the Middle East.

The South Korean government continues its careful review regarding the U.S. request for troop deployment to the Strait of Hormuz.

Vice Minister of National Defense Lee Doo-hee stated during the National Assembly's interpellation session yesterday regarding the Hormuz deployment that "no decision has been made yet," adding that the government is in the stage of reviewing the matter by comprehensively considering the safety of citizens and the nation's economic interests.

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.