France and allies plan defensive mission to reopen Strait of Hormuz, says Macron

PAPHOS: French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday that France and its allies are preparing a "defensive" mission aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime passage for global trade and energy supplies. The statement comes as the conflict in the Middle East entered its second week, following US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28 that have heightened regional instability.

Macron made the announcement during a visit to Cyprus, where he discussed regional security with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. He emphasized the importance of the mission, stating that it would focus on escorting container ships and tankers to gradually reopen the strait "after the end of the hottest phase of the conflict."

"This is essential for international trade, but also for the flow of gas and oil, which must be able to leave this (Gulf) region once again," Macron said during his visit to Cyprus.

The French leader arrived by helicopter on the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier, which had been dispatched to the Mediterranean in response to the escalating situation. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for the transportation of oil and gas from the Gulf region, and its closure has raised concerns over the stability of international energy markets.

Macron's remarks underline the growing international efforts to ensure the security of maritime routes in the region and to prevent further disruption to global trade and energy supplies. The proposed mission is described as "defensive" in nature, focusing on the safe passage of commercial vessels through the strait.

The ongoing conflict and its potential to spread to other parts of the world have prompted calls for coordinated action among France and its allies. Discussions on the specifics of the mission and the countries involved are ongoing, as regional and international stakeholders seek to address the challenges posed by the current crisis.