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Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei on Monday warned the Republic of Korea (ROK) against maintaining a military presence or participating in operations in the Strait of Hormuz.

Baghaei's comments followed the ROK's announcement that it was reviewing options, including military measures, to support what it calls its freedom of navigation in the Strait.

Speaking at a weekly press conference in Tehran, Iran's capital, Baghaei said relations between Iran and the ROK span more than 64 years and have always been grounded in mutual respect. However, he warned that any operational involvement or military presence by other parties in the Strait of Hormuz would be seen as direct support for the aggressor side and would carry serious consequences.

He described his statement as a general warning to all countries against being used instrumentally by the United States.

He further emphasized that attacks on Iran's oil tankers constitute a war crime, and that such U.S. actions would legitimize Iran's defensive measures.

"Iran has positioned itself in a stance of self-defense due to the ongoing naval blockade and economic war. Under these circumstances, its strikes against U.S. military bases or naval vessels fall squarely within its inherent right to legitimate self-defense, as recognized under Article 51 of the UN Charter," Baghaei said.

He also rejected U.S. attempts to blame Tehran for disruptions to commercial shipping and rising energy prices, arguing that the U.S. itself sparked the crisis by waging a war of aggression against Iran.

The spokesman highlighted the latest developments in Iran-Oman talks regarding the Strait of Hormuz, noting that negotiations are progress despite occasional interruptions caused by third-party interference.

Baghaei said the talks are nearing their final stages, and that an agreement is expected to be submitted to the International Maritime Organization within the next few days. However, he added that this objective would only be met if disruptive parties do not create new obstacles.