NAIROBI, Kenya: French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday said that France had “never envisaged” a naval deployment in the Strait of Hormuz but rather a security mission that would be “coordinated with Iran”.
At a news conference in Nairobi, Macron said he was sticking to his position opposing a blockade from either side, and to “reject any toll” to ensure ships are able to pass through the strategic waterway.
Iran on Sunday warned of a “decisive and immediate response” to any French or British deployments in the strait, after both announced they would send military vessels to the region.
“There was never any question of a deployment but we are ready,” said Macron.
“We have put together an ad hoc mission, co-led with the British, which has brought together 50 countries and international organisations to enable, in a coordinated way with Iran and by deconflicting the situation with all the countries of the region and the United States, the resumption of maritime traffic as soon as conditions allow,” Macron added.
Macron, in Africa for a summit in Nairobi, said the whole continent was “victim of the blockade” of the strait, through which normally passes most of the oil exported from the Middle East.
France last week announced that its aircraft carrier, the Charles de Gaulle, had passed through the Suez Canal in preparation for such a mission.
Iran warns countries of “difficulties” in Hormuz
On Sunday, Iran warned that vessels belonging to countries complying with US sanctions against Tehran could face difficulties while transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
According to Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency, Iranian Army spokesperson Brigadier General Mohammad Akraminia said on Sunday that vessels belonging to states complying with US sanctions against Iran would “certainly face difficulties” while passing through the narrow maritime corridor.
The statement comes as tensions remain elevated following months of military confrontation involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
The Strait of Hormuz is regarded as one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes, with a significant portion of global energy supplies passing through the waterway every day.
A ceasefire brokered through Pakistani mediation came into effect on April 8, temporarily easing hostilities.
However, subsequent negotiations held in Islamabad were unable to produce a permanent settlement between the opposing sides.
US President Donald Trump later announced an extension of the truce without specifying a deadline, while diplomatic efforts towards a broader agreement continue.
Meanwhile, Washington has maintained pressure on Tehran through maritime measures in the Gulf.
Since April 13, the United States has enforced what Iranian officials describe as a naval blockade targeting Iranian shipping activity in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
