South Korea strengthens naval mission near the Strait of Hormuz

South Korea plans to expand its anti-piracy naval mission near the Strait of Hormuz in response to U.S. pressure for military contributions to maritime security. The Defense Ministry confirmed the Cheonghae unit will extend operations from the Gulf of Aden to waters close to Hormuz, excluding the Gulf of Oman. This move aims to protect South Korean citizens and merchant vessels amid rising piracy and prepare for potential international demining operations. The deployment will include a destroyer, a P-8 maritime patrol aircraft, and unmanned systems, but will remain non-combatant and avoid Iranian territory. President Lee Jae-myung reiterated South Korea's commitment to non-intervention in conflicts, despite U.S. calls for military support against Iran.