G7 sees key role for France, UK in Strait of Hormuz transit security

Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations expressed confidence that initiatives by France and the United Kingdom will be crucial for the safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. This comes as international maritime traffic is expected to resume following an agreement between the United States and Iran.

The G7 leaders, in a statement on geopolitical issues during their summit in Évian, France, asserted that the Anglo-French effort would reassure commercial shipping operators. This reassurance stems from support for verifying the removal of mines laid during the conflict.

"We reaffirm that the right of unimpeded and toll-free transit passage is a fundamental pillar of international trade," the G7 leaders declared. They welcomed the US-Iran deal, set to be signed in Switzerland, attributing its success to "firm leadership" from U.S. President Donald Trump and the support of mediating countries.

The statement highlighted the agreement as a "historic opportunity" to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and to counter threats from its regional and ballistic missile activities. "We endorse this agreement and are ready to contribute to its implementation," the leaders stated, adding that regional and international partners, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), should participate in the negotiations.

Regarding Gaza, the G7 committed to accelerating humanitarian and reconstruction efforts. For Lebanon, they expressed support for an "immediate and solid ceasefire" to aid Lebanese authorities in disarming the Hezbollah group.