■ Joint probe releases findings
Two impacts struck the stern’s port side at one-minute intervals
If Iran is confirmed responsible, ties between the two countries would face major fallout
Government: “Considering participation in U.S.-led MFC, among other options”
Two impacts struck the stern’s port side at one-minute intervals
If Iran is confirmed responsible, ties between the two countries would face major fallout
Government: “Considering participation in U.S.-led MFC, among other options”
The joint investigation found that two unidentified aerial vehicles struck the exterior of the HMM container ship Namu, sparking a fire. If subsequent analysis determines the craft originated from Iran, the political and diplomatic repercussions could be significant. Park Il, a Foreign Ministry spokesman, said at a briefing on May 10 that “at about 3:30 p.m. on May 4 (local time), two unidentified aerial vehicles struck the outer hull of the Namu’s stern port-side ballast tank twice at roughly one-minute intervals. Flames and smoke followed, and the port-side stern outer hull was damaged to a width of about 5 meters and a depth of about 7 meters.” The government also released three photos of the damaged vessel.
Earlier, the government had said the blaze was unlikely to be the result of an attack, but CCTV footage and on-site inspections revealed that external impacts caused the fire. Authorities have not yet determined whether the objects were drones, missiles, or another type of aerial weapon.
Investigators still need to establish who launched the two craft and whether the Namu was deliberately targeted. “We captured the craft on CCTV, but limitations prevent us from confirming the operator or the exact model and size,” Park said. Officials plan further analysis of engine debris recovered from the scene.
Seoul has maintained a cautious posture on the Namu fire, but officials warn the probe’s findings could influence response plans for operations in the Strait of Hormuz.
Separately, Iran’s ambassador to South Korea, Saeid Kouzechi, visited the Foreign Ministry building in Jongno, Seoul, to meet with First Vice Foreign Minister Park Yun-ju shortly before the government released the investigation results. “The ambassador visited to hear our findings,” Park said, adding that Seoul is communicating with relevant countries based on facts confirmed so far. He said officials are carefully reviewing participation in U.S.-led initiatives, including maritime freedom efforts such as the MFC.
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