Iran has warned South Korea against deploying military forces or participating in US operations in the Strait of Hormuz, saying such involvement would have “serious consequences”.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei issued the warning on Monday in a Korean-language post on X, urging Seoul not to succumb to what he described as US pressure and intimidation.

Baqaei said any military deployment or participation by other countries in operations in the Persian Gulf or Strait of Hormuz would be regarded by Tehran as direct support for the party responsible for what Iran describes as US aggression.

The warning followed South Korea’s announcement on Friday that it was considering contributing to US security efforts around the strategic waterway.

Seoul said any contribution would depend on ensuring that its own military readiness was not compromised, while stressing that no final decision had been made.

South Korea’s Foreign Ministry said on Monday that the country was maintaining communication with the international community and relevant countries to help restore peace and stability in the Middle East and ensure the free passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran and the United States have continued exchanging fire around the waterway despite an April ceasefire, while negotiations between the two countries have stalled.

The Strait of Hormuz is a major global energy route, normally carrying about one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports. Traffic through the waterway has been severely disrupted since the conflict began, affecting global energy markets.