South Korea Starts Hormuz Consultations After Ceasefire Deal

South Korea has begun consultations with the United States, Iran and other countries on navigation through the Strait of Hormuz after a preliminary peace deal was signed, the foreign ministry said Tuesday.

President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Iran's parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf signed a memorandum of understanding that extends the ceasefire for 60 days, according to U.S. officials. Negotiations on nuclear and other issues are set to follow.

A large number of vessels, including two dozen South Korea-linked ships, have been stranded in the waterway. Iran had effectively choked off transit with threats of missile and drone strikes during the war.

"We are assessing the details related to maritime transit and have begun necessary communication with relevant countries, including the U.S. and Iran," ministry spokesperson Park Il said at a regular press briefing.

Park said the government is monitoring naval mines, the overall security situation in the strait and shipping traffic conditions before making judgments on passage operations. The government will prioritize the safety of South Korean vessels and sailors while working to ensure the smooth resumption of shipping, he added.

Park said the government will also maintain close consultations with shipping companies as developments unfold.