On May 27, South Korea’s Foreign Ministry revealed that a recent attack on a cargo ship operated by local company HMM in the Strait of Hormuz probably involved an Iranian anti-ship missile. The assessment came during a briefing following an investigation into the May 4 incident, which resulted in a fire and damage to the vessel’s lower stern.
First Vice Foreign Minister Park Yoon-joo indicated that various pieces of evidence suggested Iran’s involvement, though the investigation had not definitively identified the perpetrator or the intent behind the attack. The inquiry examined debris from unidentified objects found inside the ship, which was named Namu. It was determined that the vessel had been hit twice, with one warhead failing to detonate.
Analysis showed that components from the debris likely originated in Iran. Park noted similarities between the engines and Iranian-made turbojet engines, adding that some debris bore markings associated with Iranian manufacturers. The warheads resembled those found in Iranian anti-ship missile systems like Noor or Qader.
In response, South Korea plans to summon the Iranian ambassador to present investigation findings and deliver a diplomatic protest. The government emphasized the need for Iran to implement measures to prevent future incidents, while U.S. President Trump earlier asserted that Iran had targeted the South Korean ship and called for solidarity in securing shipping routes in the region.
Share it now
