MOFA Preparing to Support Korean Vessels Stranded in the Strait of Hormuz with Supplies

Second Evacuation Plan for Korean Nationals in Iran and Israel

The government is closely coordinating with the host countries where local diplomatic missions are located to ensure that Korean vessels stranded due to Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz can receive necessary supplies.

Oil tanker passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Unrelated to the article. Yonhap News Agency.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on March 10, there are currently more than 20 Korean-flagged vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, with over 180 crew members on board.

Regarding this, an official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, "The Korean vessels are anchored in safe locations, so there is no major problem at the moment, but their reserves could run low." The official continued, "We have asked embassies in neighboring countries to work closely with their host countries so that if resupply becomes necessary, the ships can enter port smoothly and receive emergency support."

In fact, it is reported that one Korean vessel, which is running low on daily necessities, is being arranged to move to a nearby country's port to receive supplies. The official explained, "These are essential items required for living on the vessel, including food."

Additionally, the government is also preparing plans for additional evacuations of Korean nationals residing in Iran and Israel. Previously, Korean nationals staying in Iran and Israel had evacuated to neighboring countries by land under the support of local diplomatic missions and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Rapid Response Team. The official said, "As there are individuals who wish to escape additionally, we are preparing a second land evacuation plan." However, the official did not disclose specific evacuation routes or schedules, citing safety concerns.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.