Seoul mulling possible role in US freedom of navigation initiative in Hormuz: security adviser

“Korea is reviewing a possible role in a U.S. initiative aimed at restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a senior presidential official said Wednesday. National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac made the remarks following an apparent attack on a South Korean-operated vessel last week in the crucial waterway that has effectively been shut down since U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran in late February. "Regarding efforts to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a review is underway on the United States' Maritime Freedom Construct," Wi said in a forum in Seoul. Washington has proposed an international coalition, called "Maritime Freedom Construct," aimed at ensuring free navigation of the shipping route. Wi's remarks came after Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back told his U.S. counterpart during talks at the Pentagon this week that Seoul will review making phased contributions to Washington's efforts to restore passage in the strait. Wi noted that Seoul is actively taking part in multinational efforts related to the strait, citing President Lee Jae Myung's participation in an

Summary generated from the RSS feed of Korea Times Southkorea. All article rights belong to the original publisher. Click through to read the full piece on www.koreatimes.co.kr.