Will work with other countries to reopen Strait of Hormuz: Emmanuel Macron

SEOUL: Amid rising tensions in West Asia, French President Emmanuel Macron said that France will work with other countries to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking during his visit to South Korea, Macron said efforts are underway to plan a peaceful mission in coordination with other nations to ensure the strait remains open. He also added that broader discussions will be held to ease tensions in the region.

Meanwhile, the United States has announced that it will block all ships attempting to enter or exit the Strait of Hormuz. President Donald Trump ordered the move after Iran refused to step back from its nuclear development program. The blockade is set to begin today at 10 a.m.

The decision follows the failure of peace talks between Iran and the United States held in Islamabad. As part of increasing pressure on Iran, the US said the blockade will apply to all ships entering or leaving Iranian ports, including those of friendly nations. Meanwhile, Iran has mocked the US decision.

During the 21-hour talks in Islamabad, both sides reportedly reached an agreement on many issues. However, Iran refused to resolve concerns related to its nuclear program, which Trump criticised. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said that the U.S. Navy, “the best in the world,” will begin stopping all ships trying to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. He also warned that any Iranian who fires at the US or peaceful ships would face severe consequences.