Korean Media: Strait of Hormuz Closed, South Korea’s Oil Tanker Breaks Through via Red Sea
It is reported that due to the situation in the Middle East, the Strait of Hormuz has been blocked, and for the first time, a South Korean vessel carrying crude oil safely departed via the Red Sea. Traveling through the Red Sea may expose ships to attacks by Houthi militants from Yemen who are backed by Iran; earlier warnings advised caution in navigation.
On the 17th, according to the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, a South Korean vessel loaded with crude oil at Yanbu Port in Saudi Arabia along the Red Sea coast had safely left the region. This marks the first time since the closure of the Strait of Hormuz that a South Korean ship has transported crude oil back home using the alternative route through the Red Sea.
After Iran blocked the Strait of Hormuz amid the Middle East crisis, South Korea urgently needed an alternative shipping route for crude oil. On the 6th, during the 14th State Council meeting and the 4th emergency economic review session, the government discussed plans to ensure safe passage of South Korean vessels through the Red Sea for oil supply. During this vessel's journey into the Red Sea, the South Korean Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries monitored it around the clock, providing real-time navigation information and maintaining continuous communication with both the vessel and the shipping company.
The Red Sea is a known operational base for Houthi rebels in Yemen who are aligned with Iran. Since October 2023, when Israel clashed militarily with Hamas, there have been 79 reported incidents of ships being attacked in the region.
On the same day, President Yoon Suk-yeol posted on X (formerly Twitter): "It is encouraging news that crude oil has been steadily transported via the Red Sea for the first time after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz—a valuable achievement made possible through the concerted efforts of relevant agencies. I extend my gratitude to everyone working tirelessly under difficult conditions, especially the crew members." He also stated: "The government is now mobilizing all resources to overcome the crisis brought about by the war in the Middle East. Going forward, we will continue to respond decisively and prepare thoroughly to safeguard the livelihoods of our citizens and national interests to the fullest extent."
Source: Chosun Ilbo
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1862726966801417/
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