Paris: France is set to initiate a 'defensive' international maritime mission in the Strait of Hormuz, pending favorable conditions for its commencement, according to a statement made on Friday by the French Foreign Minister, Jean-Noel Barrot. Barrot emphasized that the obstruction of the Hormuz Strait must end, asserting that it is governed by international law and should remain unobstructed to prevent blackmail and blockade.
According to Anadolu Agency, Barrot highlighted the link between rising fuel prices and developments in the Strait of Hormuz, which France has condemned for violating international law and impacting the global economy. France has taken steps since the onset of the crisis to mitigate its effects, implementing measures to shield households and businesses from escalating energy costs.
Barrot detailed targeted assistance for sectors most vulnerable to fuel price surges, such as fishing, agriculture, transport, and heavy road users, to help them manage the financial burden. Concurrently, France has initiated a plan to reduce reliance on hydrocarbons through electrification in transport and heating, aiming to minimize vulnerability to future crises.
Barrot confirmed that France has deployed naval assets in the region from the beginning of the conflict to protect nationals, ensure their repatriation, and safeguard partners targeted by Iranian attacks. The international mission, championed by French President Emmanuel Macron, is at an advanced stage and will be purely defensive, operating in collaboration with nations bordering the Strait of Hormuz.
The mission is strictly defensive, with planning completed and the concept shared with key regional partners. The goal is to enable the swift resumption of maritime traffic through escort and mine-clearing operations as soon as conditions are favorable.
In response to inquiries about participation in a US-led coalition, Barrot stated that France would abstain, indicating that the American initiative seems to intertwine ongoing military operations with maritime activities. France remains committed to its initiative, independent of other proposals.
The US and Israel initiated strikes on Iran on February 28, leading to Iranian retaliation against US allies in the Gulf and the subsequent closure of the Strait of Hormuz. A ceasefire was brokered on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, with talks in Islamabad on April 11-12, though no agreement was reached. US President Donald Trump later extended the truce unilaterally, at Pakistan's request, without specifying a new timeframe.