Macron says military operation to reopen Strait of Hormuz is unrealistic

RIYADH, April 2, 2026 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – French President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday that reopening the Strait of Hormuz through military force was unrealistic, arguing that any effort to restore passage through the strategic waterway would have to involve coordination with Iran after a ceasefire.

Speaking during a visit to South Korea, Macron said France had not chosen the military option and did not view it as viable.

A forced operation to reopen the strait would take a long time and expose vessels to coastal threats, ballistic missiles and other risks linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, he said.

Any reopening of the strait could only come through negotiations with Iran following a possible ceasefire, according to Macron.

France is pushing for an international mission involving European and non-European countries to escort oil and gas tankers once the most intense phase of the conflict has passed.