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Emmanuel Macron made it clear that France does not support any military attempt to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by force. He said this could only be done by talking to Iran.
Macron's remarks come at a time when the Strait of Hormuz waterway has been severely disrupted by the ongoing conflict. (File Photo)
UPDATED: Apr 2, 2026 19:44 IST
French President Emmanuel Macron has pushed back against calls for a military solution to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning that such an approach would be both impractical and dangerous. Speaking during his visit to South Korea, Macron also took a swipe at US President Donald Trump, asking seriousness as tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate.
His remarks come at a time when the strategic waterway -- crucial for global oil and trade flows -- has been severely disrupted by the ongoing conflict.
FORCE NOT THE ANSWER
Macron made it clear that France does not support any military attempt to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Referring to proposals that have surfaced in recent weeks, he said, "There are those who advocate for the liberation of the Strait of Hormuz by force through a military operation, a position sometimes expressed by the United States."
"I say sometimes because it has varied, it is never the option we have chosen and we consider it unrealistic," he added.
He went on to explain the risks involved in such an operation. "It is unrealistic because it would take an inordinate amount of time and would expose anyone crossing the strait to coastal threats from the (Iranian) Revolutionary Guards, who possess significant resources, as well as ballistic missiles, (and) a host of other risks."
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Published By:
Satyam Singh
Published On:
Apr 2, 2026 19:44 IST
