Key facts
- South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi held phone talks on September 11, 2026.
- The discussion focused on the situation in the Middle East and the Strait of Hormuz.
- Cho expressed concern over regional instability and stressed the need for freedom of navigation.
- Araghchi explained Iran's position on the current Middle East situation.
- The ministers agreed to maintain communication on regional and bilateral issues.
- This was the sixth known phone conversation between the two ministers since late February.
South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and his Iranian counterpart, Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, held phone talks on September 11, 2026, to discuss regional stability and the security of the Strait of Hormuz. The conversation comes as South Korea is considering a potential military contribution to secure the strategic waterway amidst pressure from the United States, a move Iran opposes.
During the call, Cho conveyed South Korea's deep concern over recent Middle East developments and expressed hope for the restoration of peace and stability in the region. He also underscored Seoul's commitment to international efforts ensuring freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing the necessity of guaranteed free and safe passage for all vessels. Cho also requested Iran's attention to the safety of South Korean nationals in the region.