France has decided to bolster its naval forces in the Persian Gulf to secure navigation in one of the world’s most critical shipping routes, which handles about 20% of global oil and gas supplies.
French forces have deployed mine‑countermeasure assets to the Middle East, including two minehunters, President Emmanuel Macron posted on X late on Friday. The naval deployment also includes two frigates and a maritime patrol aircraft.
"These assets are ready to contribute, alongside our partners, to the full resumption of navigation and to ensure the safety of traffic in the Strait of Hormuz," Macron said. The interim peace deal between the US and Iran "constitutes an important step forward for regional stability," he added.
The decision to deploy French naval forces comes after months of ongoing tensions between Washington and European allies. Europe has viewed the Iran war as a conflict of choice and was wary of getting involved in what would be highly dangerous efforts to reopen Hormuz.
President Donald Trump singled out the UK and France for criticism over their stance on the Iran war. In a Truth Social post, he accused France of being "very unhelpful" and warned the US "will remember" their lack of support.
