Paris: The French government has emphasized that its planned maritime operations in the Strait of Hormuz are intended solely for defensive purposes, responding to Iranian warnings about potential Western naval activities in the region.

According to Anadolu Agency, government spokesperson Maud Bregeon addressed the issue on broadcaster BFMTV, emphasizing that France, in collaboration with the UK and other partners, aims to support the restoration of navigation through the strategically significant strait. Bregeon reiterated that France’s initiative is focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz in a defensive manner, coordinated with various regional forces when security conditions permit.

Iran has issued warnings that any French or British naval presence in or around the Strait of Hormuz would be met with a ‘decisive and immediate response’ from its armed forces. Bregeon noted that French President Emmanuel Macron has consistently affirmed France’s position, dismissing any allegations of offensive intentions.

She further explained that France’s military activities in the region, including the deployment of the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle towards the southern Red Sea, are aimed at bolstering maritime security operations. Bregeon emphasized that the main objective is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, an action in accordance with international law and essential for the global economy.

The backdrop to these developments includes US and Israeli strikes against Iran on February 28, which led to retaliatory actions from Tehran against Israel and US allies in the Gulf, along with the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Though a ceasefire was established on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, subsequent talks in Islamabad did not yield a permanent agreement. The truce was later extended by US President Donald Trump without a fixed deadline, allowing room for diplomatic efforts towards a lasting resolution to the conflict.