France calls for talks to restore Strait of Hormuz traffic

France’s Foreign Minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, has called for the launch of negotiations to restore navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and reduce tensions, warning of an “extremely high” risk of escalation amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Speaking to BFMTV during a visit to the United Arab Emirates on Friday, May 1, Barrot stressed the urgency of diplomatic efforts. “We must do everything possible to prevent a resumption of hostilities; everyone has seen from the very beginning of this war (...) that the risks of escalation are extremely high and entail serious consequences for the global economy,” he said in an interview from Abu Dhabi, as part of his regional tour of Persian Gulf countries.

Barrot argued that the current ceasefire period should be used to advance dialogue between the warring sides. “Negotiations must begin so that the Iranian regime moves toward a radical change in its position, makes serious concessions for peaceful coexistence in its regional environment, and so that its people can freely build their future,” he said.

His remarks come after several “non-belligerent” countries, including France and the United Kingdom, expressed readiness in mid-April to organise a “neutral mission” aimed at ensuring security in the Strait of Hormuz. According to Barrot, preparations for such an initiative are ongoing.

“Several dozen countries will undoubtedly make a very concrete contribution to the deployment on the ground of mine-clearing or escort capabilities. This work has been launched, planning is being finalised so that we are ready to intervene at the right moment to normalise traffic,” he stated.

Barrot, who visited Saudi Arabia prior to arriving in the UAE and is set to conclude his tour in the Sultanate of Oman, also said that France’s defensive actions against drones launched by Iran have been positively received by regional countries.

“France’s contribution to the protection of these countries, which were not involved and had asked for nothing, has been duly appreciated, to the point that many of them wish in the future to develop even closer relations with our country to create the conditions for their sovereignty, defence, and economic security,” he added.

By Tamilla Hasanova