In a significant move to stabilize global energy markets, France is spearheading an international coalition to gradually reopen the critically important Strait of Hormuz. President Emmanuel Macron announced the initiative on Monday during a regional security summit in Cyprus, emphasizing its defensive and supportive nature.
The strategic waterway, through which approximately 20% of the world’s crude oil transits, has seen maritime traffic virtually cease since the outbreak of intensified Middle East hostilities. The conflict was triggered by US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, which resulted in regional chaos and the death of Iran’s supreme leader.
Macron articulated the mission’s dual purpose: ensuring international trade security and facilitating the unimpeded flow of gas and oil from the Gulf region. “This is essential for international trade, but also for the flow of gas and oil,” Macron stated during his Cyprus visit, where he met with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.
The French initiative has gained European support, with the European Union confirming readiness to enhance maritime protection operations in the Middle East. This development follows recent security incidents, including Iranian-made drone attacks targeting Cyprus, which Macron characterized as an attack on all of Europe.
France has already demonstrated its commitment to regional security by deploying the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier to the Mediterranean, accompanied by frigate support and air defense units. Macron indicated that this flagship vessel might eventually be deployed to the Strait of Hormuz as part of the multinational effort.
Concurrently, France maintains its participation in the EU’s Operation Aspides in the Red Sea, where a French frigate helps protect commercial vessels from Houthi rebel attacks. Macron pledged France’s long-term commitment to this mission with two frigates, underscoring the broader objective of ensuring freedom of navigation and maritime security.
Regarding the broader conflict, Macron offered a sober assessment, warning that profound changes to Iranian leadership cannot be achieved “through American-Israeli bombings alone.” He projected that the intense phase of hostilities could persist for “several days, perhaps several weeks,” emphasizing the need for sustained engagement.