Macron: Middle East war not entirely over; France to help reopen Strait of Hormuz

French President Emmanuel Macron cautioned that the conflict in the Middle East has not reached a definitive conclusion, even after a recent agreement between Iran and the United States. Speaking after the G7 summit in Évian, France, Macron indicated that his country is prepared to offer technical support to ensure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global trade.

Macron voiced reservations about the agreement, noting "many points of interrogation." He highlighted France's capacity to deploy fighter jets within 24 hours to aid in securing the Strait, as part of a coalition involving numerous countries. He also mentioned the potential deployment of bomb disposal units and a French aircraft carrier with its escort frigates.

However, the French leader expressed concern over Iran's potential privatization of the Strait, deeming it "one of the real risks" following the deal with Washington. "We have not obtained any guarantees regarding this, because France is not a party to this agreement," Macron elaborated. He also urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to "exercise rationality and responsibility" concerning military activities in southern Lebanon, Gaza, and the West Bank.