President Lee Welcomes Middle East Agreement... Hopes for Resumption of Safe Navigation in Hormuz

"Highly Appreciates President Trump's Leadership and Diplomatic Efforts of Related Countries"

"Hopes for Stabilized Energy Supply and an Opportunity to Resolve Economic Uncertainties"

President Lee Jae-myung welcomed the agreement reached between the United States and Iran regarding Middle East-related negotiations, calling it "an important step forward toward resolving a situation the international community has long hoped for." President Lee expressed his hope for the swift normalization of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and for global energy supply stability to be achieved as soon as possible.

President Lee Jae-myung delivers an encouragement speech at a meeting with compatriots held at a hotel in Rome on the 15th (local time). June 15, 2026. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter) on June 15, President Lee stated, "I welcome the agreement reached in the Middle East negotiations," and added, "I highly appreciate the leadership of President Donald Trump, who led the conclusion of this agreement, as well as the diplomatic efforts of the negotiating parties and related countries."

Previously, U.S. President Donald Trump announced on June 14 (local time) that the negotiations for an end to hostilities with Iran had been concluded, and also declared the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Major foreign media outlets reported that this agreement could mark a significant turning point in addressing the Iranian nuclear issue, maritime transit, and the easing of regional tensions. However, they also noted that concrete implementation procedures and subsequent negotiation tasks remain.

President Lee stated, "Through this agreement, I hope that peace and stability in the Middle East region will be restored quickly, and that a foundation will be established for the safety and prosperity of the people in the region." He went on to emphasize, "I hope that global energy supply will stabilize, and that all vessels—including our ships and seafarers who have faced restrictions in navigating the Strait of Hormuz—will be able to promptly resume safe operations."

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical route for transporting Middle Eastern crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG). In recent times, heightened tensions in the Middle East and concerns over disruptions to maritime traffic have led to upward pressure on international oil prices and logistics costs, which have, in turn, imposed burdens on domestic industries and consumer prices.

President Lee noted, "The increased tensions in the Middle East have led to rises in energy prices and logistics expenses, which have placed considerable burdens on domestic prices, corporate management, and everyday life." However, he added, "While it may be difficult to feel changes in the short term, I hope this will serve as an opportunity for our economy’s uncertainties to be gradually resolved and for recovery to take hold."

President Lee also reiterated his commitment to cooperation with the international community. He stated, "As a responsible member of the international community, the Republic of Korea will spare no effort in providing the necessary support and cooperation so that this agreement can contribute to world peace and prosperity beyond the Middle East region." He added, "Going forward, we will continue to work closely with the United States and the international community to ensure that free and safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz is consistently guaranteed, and we will fulfill our necessary roles in this effort."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.