South Korea’s US Alliance Under Strain as Trump’s Iran Dispute Raises Security Concerns

South Korea is facing growing concerns over its long-standing alliance with the United States after President Donald Trump ordered a major reduction in joint military exercises.

The decision, announced shortly before the annual US-South Korea drills, reportedly caught Seoul off guard. The exercise was subsequently shortened from 11 days to five, with several field-training activities also reduced.

Trump has criticised South Korea for refusing to join the US and Israel’s war against Iran, questioning why American troops should defend Seoul while South Korea declines to support Washington’s military campaign.

The development has reignited debate in South Korea over the reliability of US security guarantees. President Lee Jae Myung has defended the alliance while calling for stronger self-reliant defence capabilities.

Some South Korean politicians and commentators have urged Seoul to reconsider its position on the Iran war and contribute more to US-led efforts, including protecting navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

Others have criticised Trump for making major security decisions without consulting Seoul, warning that the move could weaken trust in the alliance and encourage calls for greater military independence, including renewed debate over South Korea developing its own nuclear weapons.

Analysts say the episode could also affect US efforts to engage North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, particularly over Pyongyang’s nuclear programme.

The latest tensions have raised fresh questions about the future of the 72-year US-South Korea security alliance and how much Seoul can rely on Washington amid Trump’s changing foreign policy priorities.

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