Original Source

President Lee Jae-myung instructed a review of 'vehicle restriction systems' and swift 'war supplementary budget' in preparation for a prolonged Middle East situation. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump pressed for participation in the Strait of Hormuz operation, mentioning US Forces in Korea, and requested a postponement of the US-China summit.

South Korea Prepares for Prolonged Middle East Situation

President Lee Jae-myung today instructed the cabinet to consider implementing a five-day or ten-day vehicle restriction system to prepare for the potential long-term escalation of the situation in the Middle East. He also called for the swift formation of a 'war supplementary budget' to support vulnerable groups and exporting companies.

US-China Relations and Pressure on Strait of Hormuz

US President Donald Trump repeatedly pressured for participation in ship escort operations in the Strait of Hormuz off Iran, referencing the US Forces in Korea (USFK). He also announced that he requested a one-month postponement of the US-China summit, which was scheduled to take place in two weeks.

Prosecution Reform Bill to be Processed in National Assembly

Following internal conflicts within the ruling party, the prosecution reform follow-up bill has been finalized through discussions between the party, government, and presidential office, and is slated for processing in the National Assembly plenary session on the 19th. Democratic Party Chairman Chung Cheong-rae stated that clauses related to the prosecutor's investigation command and potential intervention in investigations were removed. Additionally, the People Power Party decided to select its Busan mayoral candidate through a primary after controversy arose over a sole nomination, and Representative Jeon Jae-soo of the Democratic Party reportedly requested a primary against former Busan City Council Chairman Lee Jae-sung.

*Source: YouTube: SBS News (2026-03-17)*

Related Articles