South Korean FM Urges Safe Hormuz Navigation in Call with Iranian Counterpart

South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun urged his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, to ensure the safe resumption of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz during a phone call on Saturday. Cho highlighted that South Korean and other international vessels remain anchored in the waterway since the conflict began in late February.

The ministry stated that the call, initiated by Iran, marked the third such discussion between the ministers since the outbreak. A total of 26 South Korean vessels, carrying more than 170 crew members, have been stranded in the strait following U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran that sparked the war.

Cho expressed hope for the swift restoration of peace and stability, noting the conflict's impact on global security and the economy. Araghchi outlined Iran's position on negotiations with the United States.

Ongoing U.S.-Iran Negotiations U.S.

On Friday, Trump stated he was not satisfied with Iran's latest proposal. Negotiations remain stalled after the first direct round of talks in Islamabad, Pakistan, last month ended without agreement. This statement came amid the broader regional tensions linked to the Iran conflict. Sources did not provide further details on the meeting's outcomes or additional discussions.

The stranded vessels underscore the economic fallout from the conflict, with the Strait of Hormuz serving as a crucial waterway for global oil transport. South Korea's foreign ministry emphasized the need for safe transit to mitigate disruptions. No immediate resolutions were announced following the call.

The U.S. position focuses on securing a comprehensive peace deal. Iranian officials have engaged in multiple diplomatic outreach efforts, including the recent call with South Korea.

The phone talks build on prior meetings, including one on the margins of the U.N. General Assembly in New York on September 25, 2025. Both sides exchanged views on the ongoing crisis. The ministry noted that international vessels from various nations are affected by the navigation halt.

Egypt's reaffirmation of support for Syria adds to the diplomatic landscape, though it was not directly tied to the Hormuz discussions in available reports. No contradictions emerged between the sources on these events. This comment followed the stalled talks in Pakistan.

South Korea has maintained a stance of careful assessment in response to related U.S. actions, such as tariff adjustments on the EU, though not directly connected.

The stranded crews face prolonged uncertainty, with no timeline provided for resumption. Diplomatic efforts continue amid calls for de-escalation. Sources agree on the vessel count and crew numbers, highlighting the human element of the crisis. Egypt's position on Syria reflects ongoing alliances in the region, potentially influencing future talks.

The foreign ministers' meeting did not specify new initiatives.