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South Korea Mulls Hormuz Naval Aid; US Praises Initiative

5/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

South Korea is reviewing a contribution to safeguard navigation through the Strait of Hormuz after a recent attack on a South Korean-flagged vessel.
Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back said the phased support could include backing, personnel dispatches, information sharing and military assets, without expanding troops.
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth praised South Korea’s defence-spending boost and cited President Donald Trump’s authorization of Operation Epic Fury as proof of U.S. resolve.

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Story summary

South Korea is reviewing a contribution to safeguard navigation through the Strait of Hormuz after a recent attack on a South Korean-flagged vessel.
Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back said the phased support could include backing, personnel dispatches, information sharing and military assets, without expanding troops.
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth praised South Korea’s defence-spending boost and cited President Donald Trump’s authorization of Operation Epic Fury as proof of U.S. resolve.