French President Emmanuel Macron has called for the immediate and unconditional lifting of the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by all parties. Macron emphasized the need to restore the freedom of navigation in the region to pre-conflict levels. He mentioned a multinational escort mission led by France and Britain, aimed at achieving this goal, which will operate independently of the conflicting parties. Macron also plans to discuss the matter with US President Donald Trump.
The French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle is en route to the southern Red Sea to expedite the implementation of the Franco-British initiative once circumstances allow. This initiative, involving over forty nations, seeks to reopen navigation in the Strait of Hormuz but is contingent on the cessation of US-Iranian hostilities. Macron recently engaged in discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who expressed Iran’s willingness to pursue diplomatic solutions while safeguarding national rights.
Pezeshkian conveyed Iran’s deep distrust of the United States due to recent hostile actions, labeling them as betrayals. Axios reported progress towards a potential one-page memo between the US and Iran to end the conflict, with Iran considering a nuclear enrichment moratorium in exchange for sanctions relief. The ceasefire reached on April 8 followed 40 days of fighting initiated by US and Israeli attacks. Despite unsuccessful peace talks in Islamabad, both sides continue to explore options for resolution.
