🔸South Korea’s president rejected sending troops or military equipment to the Middle East if it leads to Seoul’s participation in the war, but said the country may take on a greater role to protect commercial shipping and the transfer of oil in the region.

🔸Lee Jae-myung on Friday, 27 Shahrivar, said at a press conference: “No deployment that would lead to entering or participating in the war will be carried out.” He emphasized that South Korea would not send military equipment “in any way” for such a purpose.

🔸At the same time, he said Seoul should take, like other countries, “at least the minimum necessary measures” to protect commercial vessels, the transfer of crude oil, and the security of its citizens.

🔸In recent weeks, the South Korean government has been considering the possibility of deploying troops or military equipment to help secure shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

🔸Donald Trump, the U.S. president, has criticized Seoul for what he called insufficient support for U.S. efforts related to the Iran war.