# Iran Urges South Korea to Avoid Military Involvement in Hormuz Strait Tehran warns Seoul against expanding Cheonghae Unit operations near the strategic waterway. - **Source:** [Kyunghyang](https://www.khan.co.kr) - **Published:** 2026-11-09 - **Topic:** [world](https://brifing.si/c/world) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/0dc0bede-fbf7-4cc1-b210-190cad1b734e ## Tehran Issues Diplomatic Warning Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei issued a formal request for South Korea to refrain from deploying troops to the Hormuz Strait. Speaking on December 9, Baghaei emphasized that Seoul should avoid interfering in the region's complex security issues, warning against actions that could be perceived as supporting foreign military aggression. ## Expansion of Naval Operations The tension follows a South Korean government decision on December 5 to extend and modify the deployment of the Cheonghae Unit. The updated motion expands the unit's operational scope from the Gulf of Aden near Somalia to include waters south of Oman, bringing the South Korean naval presence closer to the Hormuz Strait. ## Specific Military Assets Involved The approved motion includes significant upgrades to the Cheonghae Unit's capabilities. Beyond standard naval patrols, the deployment now incorporates one maritime patrol aircraft, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team specialized in mine detection and removal, and unmanned mine-sweeping equipment. These assets are intended to bolster maritime security for commercial vessels operating in the area. ## Historical Ties Under Pressure Baghaei acknowledged the 60-year history of diplomatic and economic relations between Iran and South Korea. He stated that these ties have traditionally been built on mutual benefit and respect. However, he cautioned that Iran does not want its long-standing partner to align with the military strategies of the United States and Israel. ## Accusations of Complicity The Iranian government explicitly warned Seoul against becoming an accomplice to what it describes as military aggression. Tehran expressed concern that by aligning with US-led initiatives in the region, South Korea risks being viewed as a participant in actions that the Iranian public considers hostile to their national interests and regional security. ## Pattern of Diplomatic Friction This is not the first time Iran has addressed South Korea's potential military role in the region. In September, the Iranian Foreign Ministry issued a similar warning, cautioning Seoul against participating in what it termed as criminal acts against the Iranian people. The current rhetoric maintains this consistent stance regarding regional military presence. ## Strategic Importance of Hormuz The Hormuz Strait remains a critical global chokepoint for energy supplies and maritime trade. Any increase in military activity by foreign powers in this area is viewed by Tehran as a direct challenge to its regional influence. Consequently, Iran closely monitors the movements of international naval units operating near its maritime borders. ## Future Diplomatic Outlook The situation presents a delicate balancing act for South Korea, which seeks to protect its commercial shipping interests while maintaining stable ties with Tehran. Observers will be watching to see if Seoul adjusts its operational plans or if diplomatic channels can mitigate the friction caused by the expanded naval deployment mandate. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.khan.co.kr/article/202611092154001/?utm_source=khan_rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=total_news — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._