Seoul: The foreign ministry called for a swift normalization of global maritime shipping following U.S. President Donald Trump's speech indicating a reduction in U.S. involvement in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump, in a televised address, urged countries that depend on the critical waterway for energy imports to take charge of ensuring its security.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Trump stated that the U.S. would intensify actions against Iran over the coming weeks as tensions have escalated into a wider regional conflict, prompting Tehran to obstruct the crucial shipping route for global energy supplies. Ministry spokesperson Park Il emphasized the importance of maintaining the safety of international sea lanes, which are governed by international law, and expressed hope for a swift normalization of the maritime shipping network.

South Korea is deliberating on its strategy, considering measures to protect its nationals and secure energy shipping routes in coordination with the United States, Park added. Despite Trump's calls for increased involvement, Seoul has been cautious about its potential role in the conflict involving the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump expressed dissatisfaction with European and Asian allies for not supporting U.S. efforts against Iran. He reiterated that countries reliant on the Strait of Hormuz for energy should lead in safeguarding the waterway and suggested they either purchase oil from the U.S. or find ways to secure oil through the strait amid the ongoing war.

In his address, Trump specifically mentioned South Korea, criticizing it for not aiding the U.S. in its military efforts despite the presence of American troops in the country for its defense against North Korea. He suggested that South Korea, along with other nations, should take responsibility for protecting the strait instead of relying on the U.S.