South Korea summoned Iran's ambassador on Wednesday to protest after an investigation concluded that it was 'highly likely' an Iranian-made missile was responsible for an attack on a South Korean cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz. The incident occurred on May 4, when the Panama-flagged vessel was hit by unidentified projectiles in the strategically vital waterway, which has been effectively closed since the United States and Israel launched a war against Iran on February 28.
Investigation Findings
Following a weeks-long probe, the South Korean government stated that technical analysis indicated the projectile that struck the vessel was 'highly likely' an alternative version of the 'Noor series developed in Iran.' First Vice Foreign Minister Park Yoon-joo said during a briefing that the HMM Namu was attacked by two warheads, with the first incinerated and the second detonated. He noted that the engine resembled an Iranian turbojet engine, and parts bore markings presumed to be from an Iranian manufacturer.
Iran's Response
Iranian Ambassador Saeed Koozechi, after his meeting at the foreign ministry in Seoul, rejected all allegations, stating that his country 'has had absolutely no involvement in this matter,' according to the official IRNA news agency. South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported that Koozechi expressed regret over the damage to the ship, which had 24 crew members on board.
Damage to the Vessel
The South Korean government described the damage as approximately five meters wide and extending roughly seven meters into the hull on the port-side stern. The first strike is believed to have ignited an engine room fire, with the second causing the blaze to spread rapidly. Photos released by the foreign ministry show the engine room badly burned and a large breach in the outer hull near the stern, with twisted metal and internal frames visible around the impact area.
Implications for South Korea
South Korea, Asia's fourth-largest economy, heavily relies on Middle Eastern fuel imports, most of which transited through the Strait of Hormuz before it was effectively closed. The attack has raised concerns about the security of maritime routes and the stability of energy supplies. Seoul has demanded responsible measures from Iran, including steps to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
