GENEVA
France will not take part in any operation to "liberate" the Strait of Hormuz under current conditions but could consider a maritime escort role once tensions ease, President Emmanuel Macron said Tuesday.
"We are not party to the conflict, and therefore France will never take part in operations to open or liberate the Strait of Hormuz in the current context," Macron said at the start of a defense and national security council meeting.
He said France is "ready ... to take responsibility” for an escort system "once the situation is calmer," referring to a moment when "the core of the bombardments has ceased."
The French president stressed that such a mission would require coordination with partners, including India and several European and regional countries, as well as maritime operators and insurers.
He added that any initiative would involve "deconfliction with Iran" and "under no circumstances can it be a forceful operation."
France would aim to ensure freedom of navigation for commercial vessels, including container ships and tankers, in a framework distinct from ongoing military operations, the president said.
Macron reaffirmed France’s role as a "reliable partner" committed to protecting its citizens and promoting de-escalation and stability in the region.
His remarks came a day after US President Donald Trump said that "numerous countries" are preparing to help the US reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump also said he had spoken with Macron, describing his support as "eight" out of 10, adding: "I think he's gonna help."