NewKerala.com

South Korea Joins 7 Nations Condemning Iran's Strait of Hormuz Actions

South Korea has joined seven nations, including key European countries and Japan, in a joint statement condemning Iran's attacks and attempts to block the Strait of Hormuz. The statement calls on Iran to cease its actions and comply with the principle of freedom of navigation for the vital waterway, which handles 20% of global oil and gas supply. Seoul's decision reflects its concern over energy security and a shift from its earlier cautious stance following pressure from the United States. The country now commits to working with the international community to normalize maritime logistics in the region.

Key Points: S. Korea Joins 7 Nations in Strait of Hormuz Statement

  • Condemns Iran's attacks & blockade
  • Ensures freedom of navigation
  • Protects key global oil chokepoint
  • Follows U.S. pressure on allies
2 min read

South Korea joins seven countries in leaders' statement on Strait of Hormuz

South Korea joins a 7-nation statement condemning Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz, crucial for global energy supply.

"Participation... underscores South Korea's commitment to contributing to international efforts to ensure safe and free navigation - Foreign Ministry"

Seoul, March 21

South Korea will join seven countries, including European nations and Japan, in their joint statement condemning Iran's attacks in the Gulf and the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the foreign ministry said.

The joint statement, issued by Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands and Canada, calls on Iran to cease its attacks and attempts to block the strategic waterway, and comply with the principle of freedom of navigation.

They also state that they are ready to join efforts to ensure safe passage through the key shipping channel, responsible for 20 per cent of global oil and gas supply.

"The decision reflects our fundamental position on the safety of international sea lanes and freedom of navigation, and consideration of international trends and the direct impact that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could have on our energy supply and the economy," the ministry said in a message to the media on Friday.

"Participation in the joint leaders' statement underscores South Korea's commitment to contributing to international efforts to ensure safe and free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz," the ministry said.

Seoul will work closely with the international community to help ensure a swift normalisation of global maritime logistics networks, it added.

The decision follows Seoul's earlier cautious stance after US President Donald Trump called on allies to send ships to help keep the area open. But the countries Trump named have remained reluctant to join, reports Yonhap news agency.

The presidential office, Cheong Wa Dae, said earlier that Seoul was in close talks with Washington and other partner countries over what it can do to help make the region "safe and open, in a way that would best serve its national interests".

In a social media post on Friday (US time), Trump called North Atlantic Treaty Organisation allies "cowards" who complain about high oil prices but do not want to help open the waterway.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Interesting to see how this plays out. India also relies heavily on energy imports through that region. While the principle of freedom of navigation is vital, I hope the focus remains on diplomatic pressure and de-escalation, not military posturing. The last thing the world needs is another conflict zone.
R
Rohit P
Trump calling allies "cowards" is so unnecessary and counterproductive. 🤦‍♂️ It just creates more tension. South Korea's decision seems calculated and based on their national interest, not because of name-calling. That's how foreign policy should be done.
S
Sarah B
From an Indian perspective, our diplomacy in the Gulf has always been more nuanced, balancing relationships with all sides. A joint statement is one thing, but getting drawn into a potential US-Iran confrontation is another. Hope South Korea's move doesn't escalate things further.
V
Vikram M
20% of global oil and gas! No wonder everyone is worried. For a growing economy like India's, secure and affordable energy supply is non-negotiable. International cooperation like this statement is a good first step, but concrete actions to keep the sea lanes open are what matter.
K
Karthik V
While I agree with the need for safe passage, I have a respectful criticism. These statements often come from Western nations and their close allies. Where is the voice of other major stakeholders like India or China in this specific initiative? A more inclusive approach might carry more weight and legitimacy in the region.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50