France conducted discussions with approximately 35 countries through its military leader to establish collaborations and solicit suggestions for a potential mission to resume operations in the Strait of Hormuz following the conclusion of the conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran.
Western allies of the US have declared their refusal to participate in the current conflict. However, there is growing concern among officials that Iran may pose a continued threat to the waterway responsible for transporting approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply.
Shipping in that area has significantly reduced to almost a standstill following Iran's targeting of vessels during its ongoing dispute with the US and Israel.
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The French Ministry of Defense issued a statement that did not disclose the specific foreign nations that engaged in discussions with Chief of the Armed Forces Fabien Mandon during a large-scale virtual meeting, but noted that they represented various regions across the globe.
Sources have conveyed that there were preliminary talks held to gauge different countries' perspectives on the crisis. These discussions aimed to exchange ideas, gather input, and formulate a concept for a potential mission.
This initiative, independent of the ongoing military operations in the region, is strictly defensive in nature.
“Its purpose is to organise the resumption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz once hostilities have ceased”.
Admiral Nicolas Vaujour, the Chief of Staff for the French Navy, mentioned that he had engaged in discussions with 12 naval leaders, representing countries such as Britain, Germany, Italy, India, and Japan.
“We are exchanging views on issues related to freedom of navigation and maritime security, as the sea is a vital artery for our global economy and regional stability,” he wrote on X.
Numerous nations are engaging in dialogues. French President Emmanuel Macron has proposed establishing a UN framework for any measures in the strait and has indicated that international cooperation can only ensue after a reduction in hostilities, consultation with insurance and shipping companies, and obtaining consent from Iran.
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France has dispatched its aircraft carrier strike group to the eastern Mediterranean, along with two helicopter carriers and eight warships to the Middle East, in anticipation of potential forthcoming operations.
Britain has also announced that it is collaborating with its allies to create a workable strategy for reopening the Strait. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has characterized this endeavor as challenging, particularly in the absence of de-escalation in the Middle East.
According to reports, there is an anticipation that the initial stage will emphasize mine-hunting tasks, with a subsequent phase intended to safeguard tankers navigating through the region. Due to its limited resources and expertise, demining could pose a significant challenge for the US on its own.