South Korea is reviewing an expansion of its military operations in the Middle East, including potentially extending the operational area of its anti-piracy unit to the Gulf of Oman. The move comes as the US ally faces pressure from President Donald Trump to provide support for the war in Iran. The Defense Ministry confirmed it is reviewing a parliamentary motion to extend the unit's service, which expires December 31, 2026, but no details have been decided.
The potential expansion of South Korea's military role in the Middle East could impact regional security dynamics and its relationship with the United States, particularly amid ongoing conflict in Iran and pressure from President Donald Trump.
South Korea is reviewing an expansion of its military operations in the Middle East, with its anti-piracy unit potentially extending its area of operation to the Gulf of Oman. The Kyunghyang Shinmun newspaper reported that the government of President Lee Jae Myung plans to submit a motion to parliament to extend the unit's mission, which is set to expire at the end of this year. A frigate may also be sent to reinforce operations.
The Defense Ministry confirmed it is reviewing a parliamentary motion to extend the unit's service before it expires on December 31, 2026, but stated that no details have been decided. The ministry noted that pirate activity in the Gulf of Aden has sharply increased from a year ago.
The review comes as the US ally faces pressure from President Donald Trump to provide support for the war in Iran. Trump has previously criticized Seoul for insufficient support and scaled back joint military drills.
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