Iran Warns South Korea of 'Serious Consequences' Over Potential Strait of Hormuz Deployment

Iran has issued direct warnings to South Korea against any military involvement in efforts to secure navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, amid ongoing US pressure on Seoul to contribute to regional security operations. Iranian academic Mohammad Marandi, speaking on Al Mayadeen, stated that Tehran would view South Korean participation as enemy action and could target economic and military assets in the Persian Gulf region, including in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, and Qatar. Marandi emphasized South Korea's vulnerability, noting that strikes need not be limited to military targets.

These remarks align with an official statement from Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei on September 7, 2026, who warned in a Korean-language post on X that any military presence or participation in the Gulf or Strait of Hormuz would constitute support for US 'aggression' and carry 'serious consequences.' Baqaei highlighted the 64-year history of Iran-South Korea relations while urging Seoul not to yield to US pressure.

South Korea's presidential office has confirmed ongoing reviews of options—including a P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, naval logistics support ships, and explosive ordnance disposal teams—but stressed that no decisions have been made. Any deployment would require National Security Council review, cabinet resolution, and National Assembly approval. The debate occurs against the backdrop of US President Donald Trump's public criticism of Seoul for declining earlier requests for assistance, linking it to alliance strains, while South Korea relies on Hormuz for over 60% of its crude oil imports.

This follows earlier tensions, including a May 2026 incident where South Korea assessed an Iranian missile likely struck a Korean-operated vessel, and Iranian requirements for coordination on transits. Multiple outlets, including Yonhap, Korea JoongAng Daily, and international reports, confirm the fluid situation with no imminent deployment.