South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun holds a telephone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, with both sides discussing developments in the Middle East and the Strait of Hormuz, according to Seoul. Cho says he is deeply concerned about the situation and expresses hope for the restoration of lasting peace and stability in the region.
The talks also focus on freedom of navigation through the strategic waterway. Cho reiterates South Korea’s position that free and safe passage for all vessels must be guaranteed and that Seoul continues to participate in international efforts aimed at restoring or maintaining navigation security. Seoul also raises the safety of Korean nationals in the region, while Araqchi explains Iran’s perspective, the reports say.
Across the outlets, the main difference is emphasis on Seoul’s possible military role. One report frames the call amid South Korea weighing whether to deploy military assets in response to United States pressure, while another reports Cho tells Iran that Seoul has made no decision on any such deployment. All accounts describe the engagement as a diplomatic effort during heightened regional tensions and ongoing debate over external involvement at Hormuz.
