On May 5, a citizens' group known as the Gwangju Peace Alliance held a press conference at the May 18 Democracy Square in Gwangju, South Korea, voicing strong opposition to the U.S. invasion of Iran and the military drills conducted in collaboration with South Korea. The group criticized U.S. President Donald Trump's decisions, asserting that his ambitions pose significant risks to global and national stability. They emphasized that the U.S.'s rationale for engaging in conflict, citing the prevention of nuclear weapon development in Iran, is misleading, suggesting instead that the true motives revolve around reinforcing U.S. hegemony in the Middle East and securing its oil resources.

The Gwangju Peace Alliance warns that protracted warfare in the Middle East could lead to widespread economic and psychological distress globally, especially impacting South Korea, which has a heavy dependence on Middle Eastern energy. They argue that economic vulnerabilities will be exposed, including rising gasoline prices and falling stock markets due to potential conflicts in local supply chains. The group linked the ongoing U.S. military actions in the Middle East with South Korea's precarious situation, particularly highlighting concerns over the ongoing 'Freedom Shield' military exercises which reportedly involve preemptive strikes against North Korea.

Additionally, they called for the cessation of these joint military drills and pointed to the growing military tensions in regions like the West Sea between the U.S. and China. They urged the South Korean government under President Lee Jae-myung to prioritize national sovereignty and the safety of its citizens by demanding a halt to U.S. military exercises. The citizens' group believes that sincere dialogue between the U.S. and North Korea can only commence if these military actions are suspended, emphasizing the need for peace on the Korean Peninsula.