South Korea to consider phased contribution to US maritime security initiative in Strait of Hormuz

South Korea is reviewing phased contributions to a US-led initiative aimed at ensuring safe passage of commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, with the Defense Minister expressing intent to participate. Seoul also discussed potential technical and advisory assistance related to the HMM Namu incident and reaffirmed its stance on early OPCON transfer. President Trump indicated a potential revival of ‘Project Freedom’ contingent on a potential agreement with Iran.