Five South Korean ships have departed the Strait of Hormuz following a recent ceasefire deal between the US and Iran, making it a total of 11 vessels that have left the area, as confirmed by the maritime ministry. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries reported that these ships have safely navigated through the strait and are now proceeding on their usual routes. Among these vessels were 21 South Korean sailors, with one ship heading back to South Korea.
With the latest departures, the number of South Korean-associated ships still present in the strait has decreased to 13, according to reports from Yonhap news agency. The ministry disclosed that there are currently 87 South Korean sailors in the Persian Gulf, with 54 on South Korean-operated ships and 33 serving on foreign-flagged vessels. This movement comes after an agreement with the US, allowing vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz without any charges for a 60-day period post the signing of the interim agreement.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently affirmed that there will be no toll charges imposed on the Strait of Hormuz, opposing Iran’s reported intentions to collaborate with Oman in regulating traffic in the vital waterway. Rubio emphasized the international nature of the strait, dismissing any notion of tolls for passage through it. Concerns persist over Iran’s potential control over the strait, despite the temporary peace deal with the US ensuring free passage for vessels for a limited period.
Countries like South Korea are closely monitoring developments in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for energy imports, especially after Iran’s past restrictions during conflicts. The global stance remains against the idea of charging fees for using an international waterway, as reiterated by Rubio, aligning with President Trump’s stance on the matter.
