Korean Media: The U.S. Patriot System Will Be Hard to Return to South Korea

At the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) held in Grapevine, Texas on the 28th, former White House Chief Strategist and key advisor during Donald Trump’s first term stated: "The situation with Iran may last longer than anticipated. Because the negotiating counterpart remains uncertain, and both sides’ demands are non-negotiable." Regarding the division within the MAGA (Make America Great Again) movement—supporters of Trump—on the issue of military action against Iran, Bannon said: "If we don’t perform well, the midterm elections in November could result in a bleak outcome."

Divergence of Opinions on Military Action Against Iran

"I support the president; he is striving to find a way out. But we don’t know how many members of the Iranian leadership remain available for negotiations. We have already withdrawn Patriot missiles from South Korea, making re-deployment extremely difficult. From 1979 to 1980, as a navigator aboard a destroyer, I was deployed to Asia, including South Korea. After receiving orders to head to the Middle East, our vessel sailed near the Strait of Hormuz—but after completing our mission, we did not return to Asia."

How Long Will the Situation in Iran Last?

"I believe this issue won’t be resolved within just a few weeks."

What Do You Think About the Midterm Elections in November?

"Before the Iran crisis emerged, prospects were already dim. Now, the situation is clearly unfavorable for us. Gaining control of the House of Representatives will be an arduous battle. What matters most is doing the essential groundwork every single day. If we fail to do so, we will suffer total defeat in the elections. That’s why I came to Texas—to inspire everyone. You’ve experienced great victories before. Despite divisions over the Iran situation, what we must do is achievable."

How Might North Korea View the Iran Situation?

"North Korea possesses nuclear weapons and has been strategically reaffirmed as a 'wise choice.' I’m not sure whether they’ll become bolder, but they are closely watching our withdrawal of U.S. military assets from East Asia. We have redirected significant resources—including aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships—to the Middle East. Just as NATO has done in the Ukraine war, I don’t believe the U.S. will fully assume responsibility for the Strait of Hormuz. Instead, navies from South Korea and other allied nations will carry out patrol duties. This is a complex issue that will also impact South Korea’s national defense."

Source: Chosun Ilbo

Original Article: toutiao.com/article/1861060872601612/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.