President Emmanuel Macron stated on Tuesday that France will never engage in efforts to clear the Strait of Hormuz, countering remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting that Paris was ready to assist.
On Monday, at a White House event, Trump mentioned he had a conversation with Macron, rating him an '8 out of 10' for his approach to persuading allies to open the Strait of Hormuz, and hinted that Macron would participate in U.S.-supported initiatives.
"France is not involved in the conflict, and thus we will not participate in any operations to open or liberate the Strait of Hormuz in the present situation," Macron stated at the beginning of a cabinet meeting regarding the Middle East conflicts.
France has been intensifying its attempts to assemble a coalition to ensure the safety of the Strait of Hormuz once the security conditions improve and without involvement from the U.S., according to reports.
"Macron states, 'We believe that as soon as the situation stabilizes—and I intentionally use this term widely—meaning when the primary bombing has stopped, we are prepared, together with other countries, to take on the responsibility for the escort system.'
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A few days following the initiation of the attack by the United States and Israel on Iran, French President Emmanuel Macron declared on March 2 that France would enhance its nuclear capabilities and reinforce relationships with other European Union nations.
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Through his speech, Macron showcased a display of power in an evolving world, where European partners are wary of depending on the US's nuclear defense. France possesses the fourth largest nuclear arsenal globally.
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“What I desire above all else, as you will have grasped, is for Europeans to take back charge of their own future,” Macron stated.