The government's diplomatic capacity to safeguard its citizens and ensure freedom of navigation has been put to the test after the Korean-flagged vessel Namu was revealed to have come under external attack while anchored in the Strait of Hormuz. Wi Sung-lac, director of the National Security Office, condemned the incident at a press briefing on Tuesday, saying, "Attacks on civilian vessels such as the Namu cannot be justified or tolerated."
Wi said, "Two unidentified aircraft struck the outer plating of the Namu's stern twice at intervals of about one minute, producing flames and smoke accompanied by vibrations," but added, "At this point, we are not identifying the party behind the attack." He also said, "Further investigation is needed regarding information on the aircraft that struck the vessel."
It is not yet possible to conclude that Iran was involved. However, given that the two strikes were carried out in quick succession, the possibility of Iranian involvement is high. The fact that the first strike caused damage and confusion to the hull, followed by a second strike that paralyzed the vessel's ability to navigate, suggests a high degree of intent. If the Namu incident is ultimately confirmed to have been an attack by Iran, significant diplomatic fallout is expected. Swift investigation and transparent disclosure of information by the government are paramount.
The government must mobilize all of its diplomatic resources to ensure the safety of its citizens and freedom of navigation. Beyond the Namu, which has been towed to the Port of Dubai, 25 Korean vessels and some 160 crew members have been held in what amounts to a "de facto hostage" situation in the Strait of Hormuz for more than two months. Although freedom of passage through the Strait of Hormuz is guaranteed under customary international law, Iran has exploited foreign vessels, including Korean ones, as bargaining leverage to strengthen its negotiating position with the United States, and Korea has been dragged along helplessly.
Before a greater tragedy occurs, the government must clearly demonstrate its resolve that there will be "no compromise" on acts that violate the sovereignty of the Republic of Korea. What is required is an even firmer stance than President Lee Jae-myung's remark in January this year regarding scam crimes in Southeast Asia, when he said, "We must show that anyone who harms Korean nationals will face ruin." In particular, Seoul must strongly urge Iran to guarantee the safety and freedom of navigation of vessels trapped in the Strait of Hormuz. If the attack on the Namu is identified as Iran's doing, Korea should also actively participate in international cooperation efforts such as the Maritime Freedom Coalition (MFC) being promoted by the United States.
