Macron calls for coordinated reopening of Hormuz as US initiative draws doubts
French President Emmanuel Macron has urged for a “coordinated” reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, warning that a newly announced US-led initiative lacks clarity and risks further tension in an already volatile region.
Speaking on Monday as he arrived at the 8th summit of the European Political Community in Armenia, President Macron struck a cautious tone over plans unveiled by his US counterpart Donald Trump to free ships stranded for two months in the Iran-controlled Strait of Hormuz.
“I don't know what this initiative is,” Macron said bluntly, signalling unease in Paris over the framework and objectives of the proposed operation.
The announcement from Washington was swiftly met with a warning from Tehran, with Iran's military command stating that US forces would face attack if they attempted to approach the strategic waterway – a vital artery for global energy supplies.
Trump has said the United States will launch an effort on Monday to “guide” stranded ships from the Strait of Hormuz.
The US president gave few details about what could be a sweeping attempt to help hundreds of vessels and some 20,000 seafarers. Iran quickly denounced the move as a ceasefire violation.
Iran offers strait deal, Trump says he's not satisfied
Push for coordinated diplomacy
Against this tense backdrop, Macron emphasised that only a joint effort between Washington and Tehran could deliver a lasting solution.
“Above all, we hope for a coordinated reopening between Iran and the United States,” he said.
“This is the only solution that will allow the Strait of Hormuz to be reopened on a lasting basis – enabling free navigation without restrictions or tolls.”
The French leader's remarks have underlined Europe's preference for diplomacy over unilateral military action, particularly in a region where miscalculation could have global economic repercussions.
UK and France drive outline Hormuz security plans at London talks
European initiative on hold
Macron also reiterated that a parallel initiative launched with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer remains on hold while hostilities persist between the US and Iran.
“If the United States is ready to reopen Hormuz, that is very good – that is what we have been asking for from the start,” he said. “But we are not going to participate in any kind of military operation within a framework that does not seem clear to me.”
The Franco-British plan, which has brought together around 50 countries from across the globe, has already begun military planning discussions in London. However, Paris and London stress that the mission is designed to be “neutral” and “distinct from the belligerents”.
Its aim is to escort and secure merchant vessels passing through the Gulf once stability returns – offering a cooperative, rules-based approach to safeguarding one of the world's most critical shipping lanes.