South Korea says it will expand naval operations closer to strait of Hormuz

Seoul to seek parliamentary approval to extend anti-piracy Cheonghae unit’s area to about 650km from the vital strait after criticism from Donald Trump on Iran war support

South Korea plans to expand the operations ⁠of its anti-piracy unit to waters closer to the strait of Hormuz, its defence ministry has said, after pressure from Donald Trump to ⁠provide support for his war in Iran.

The government is to submit a motion to parliament that would expand the Cheonghae unit’s area of operation to waters near the port of Duqm in Oman, which ​is about 650km (403 miles) away from the strait. The motion also needs to be approved by ‌President Lee Jae Myung and the cabinet.