Seoul: South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun sidestepped questions Tuesday about whether the US had formally asked his country to send warships to the Middle East, Yonhap News Agency reported. During a parliamentary session, Cho gave vague responses when lawmakers asked whether Seoul had received any formal or informal request from Washington to deploy troops in support of US operations against Iran.

According to Anadolu Agency, Cho stated, "It may or may not be considered a request," when pressed on the issue. He further added, "As for whether there have been discussions with the US about troop deployment itself, it is difficult for me to comment at this time." The remarks come amid heightened tensions in the region and follow a call by US President Donald Trump for an international coalition to ensure the security of the Strait of Hormuz.

On Sunday, President Trump called on China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK to join what he described as a 'team effort' to keep the Strait of Hormuz open by sending warships. However, no country has yet publicly committed to the plan. Trump suggested that 'numerous countries' are preparing to assist the US in reopening the strait but declined to disclose specific nations, citing potential risks of them being targeted.

The strategic waterway has gained international attention since Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced its closure to most vessels. This development follows US-Israeli attacks on the country that began on February 28. President Trump highlighted that while the US imports less than 1% of its oil through the Strait of Hormuz, countries like Japan, China, South Korea, and European nations are significantly more dependent on its passage for their energy needs.