Seoul: South Korean President Lee Jae Myung expressed his concerns on Tuesday regarding the potential relocation of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system to the Middle East. He indicated that while Seoul opposes this move, the United States may not fully accept South Korea's stance, as reported by local media.

According to Anadolu Agency, during a cabinet meeting, President Lee addressed the implications of any potential relocation of US military assets from South Korea. He asserted that such a move would not significantly weaken South Korea's deterrence against North Korea. Lee stated, "If you ask whether our deterrence strategy against North Korea has been severely affected, I can say absolutely not," emphasizing the continued strength of South Korea's defense readiness.

Despite South Korea's opposition to the relocation of military assets by United States Forces Korea, Lee acknowledged the possibility that Seoul's views might not be fully considered. Although he did not confirm any transfer of equipment, he noted that Seoul has communicated its concerns to Washington about any potential reduction in military capabilities on the Korean Peninsula.

President Lee highlighted the expectation that the United States Forces Korea will continue to contribute to stability and peace on the Korean Peninsula. He mentioned that global security conditions could necessitate the redeployment of US air defense systems or other assets to different regions.

The discussion follows reports from both local and US media indicating that the US Department of Defense is planning to move parts of the THAAD system from South Korea to the Middle East. Additionally, The Washington Post reported that the military is drawing from its supply of sophisticated Patriot interceptors in the Indo-Pacific and other regions to enhance defenses against threats from Iran.

Recent reports from South Korean media suggested that the United States Forces Korea had repositioned Patriot missile defense system batteries to Osan Air Base in Pyeongtaek. This has fueled speculation regarding the possible deployment of US military assets stationed in South Korea to the Middle East amid the US-Israel offensive on Iran.

Approximately 28,500 US troops are stationed in South Korea as part of a long-standing security alliance aimed at countering threats from North Korea.