South Korea is considering expanding its military presence in the Middle East, potentially broadening the scope of its existing anti-piracy operations, according to reports on Thursday. The move comes amid growing pressure from the United States for allied support in the context of escalating tensions with Iran.

Seoul is reviewing the possibility of extending the operational area of its Cheonghae anti-piracy unit, which has been active in the Gulf of Aden since 2009, to include the Gulf of Oman. The Gulf of Oman is a strategic waterway connecting to the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes. The mission of the Cheonghae unit is currently set to expire at the end of 2026.

According to the reports, the administration of President Lee Jae Myung plans to submit a motion to the National Assembly for approval to prolong the unit’s deployment. The government is also reportedly considering dispatching an additional warship, possibly a frigate, to reinforce its operations in the region.

South Korea’s Defence Ministry acknowledged it is reviewing the matter but emphasized that no decisions have been finalized regarding the extension or expansion of the unit’s mission. The ministry highlighted a recent increase in pirate activity in the Gulf of Aden compared to the previous year, underscoring the ongoing security challenges in the area.

The Cheonghae unit currently consists of a 4,400-ton destroyer, a maritime operations helicopter, up to three rigid-hull inflatable boats, and approximately 300 personnel. The unit’s primary role is to conduct anti-piracy operations and ensure maritime security in international waters off the coast of Somalia and surrounding regions.

Earlier this year, President Lee expressed caution about escalating South Korea’s military involvement in the Middle East. On September 18, he stated that Seoul would avoid deploying forces in ways that could entangle the country in regional conflicts.

The potential extension of the mission appears to balance South Korea’s commitment to international maritime security with its concerns about involvement in broader geopolitical disputes. With heightened tensions between the U.S. and Iran, and the strategic significance of the Gulf of Oman and Strait of Hormuz, the government’s decision will be closely watched by regional and global actors.