South Korea says an investigation into an attack on one of its cargo ships in the Strait of Hormuz has found strong evidence that an Iranian-made missile was involved.
The vessel, identified as the Namu, was struck twice earlier this month while passing through the strategic waterway, according to Seoul’s Foreign Ministry
Officials said one of the warheads failed to explode, while the second detonated and caused a fire that damaged the rear section of the ship.
Investigators reportedly recovered debris from the vessel and found components resembling parts used in Iranian anti-ship missiles, including Noor or Qader missile systems.
South Korea’s Vice Foreign Minister, Park Yoon-joo, said various pieces of evidence point toward Iran, although Seoul has not conclusively determined whether the attack was intentional or who specifically launched it.
A South Korean defence official, however, reportedly suggested the strike appeared deliberate.
The South Korean government plans to summon the Iranian ambassador in Seoul to formally protest the incident and demand measures to prevent future attacks on commercial shipping.
Iran has not officially responded to the latest findings and has previously denied involvement in attacks in the Strait of Hormuz.
The incident comes amid heightened tensions in the Gulf region, where attacks on ships and military exchanges involving Iran, the United States and regional allies have disrupted maritime traffic and raised global concerns over oil supplies and security in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest energy shipping routes.
