South Korea says it will expand naval operations closer to strait of Hormuz

Seoul to seek parliamentary approval to extend anti-piracy Cheonghae unit's area to about 650km from the vital strait after criticism from Donald Trump on Iran war support

South Korea plans to expand the operations of its anti-piracy unit to waters closer to the strait of Hormuz, its defence ministry has said, after pressure from Donald Trump to provide support for his war in Iran.

The government is to submit a motion to parliament that would expand the Cheonghae unit's area of operation to waters near the port of Duqm in Oman, which is about 650km (403 miles) away from the strait. The motion also needs to be approved by President Lee Jae Myung and the cabinet.