France and the United Kingdom move toward coordinated talks on a proposed defensive naval initiative to secure one of the world’s most vital maritime corridors.
PARIS: French President Emmanuel Macron said Monday that France and the United Kingdom will soon hold a joint conference to discuss a possible multinational naval initiative aimed at securing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint.
Macron said on X that the proposed talks would bring together countries willing to support efforts to ensure safe passage for commercial shipping through the waterway, which carries a significant share of global oil and gas shipments.
He emphasized that any potential mission would be strictly defensive and would not involve participation in ongoing hostilities in the region.
According to Macron, the initiative is designed to remain neutral and focused solely on maritime security.
The French president added that the objective is to restore confidence in global shipping routes at a time of heightened regional tensions that have raised concerns over potential disruptions to energy supplies and international trade.
The Strait of Hormuz, located between Oman and Iran, is considered a vital artery for global energy flows, with a large percentage of the world’s seaborne oil exports passing through it daily.
Macron said the mission would only be launched when conditions on the ground allow for safe and effective implementation, stressing the importance of coordination among participating nations.
France and the UK have expressed interest in strengthening maritime security cooperation amid concerns from several countries about the risk of escalation affecting commercial navigation.
International stakeholders are expected to closely monitor the proposed initiative as diplomatic discussions continue in the coming weeks.

