Paris, May 7: The French Ministry of Defense has announced that the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle is en route to the Hormuz Strait, traveling south of the Suez Canal and through the Red Sea. This deployment is part of preparations for a potential defense mission aimed at restoring safe navigation in the waterways.
French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer are leading the multinational mission. They have stated that this operation will be entirely defensive and will only be deployed after the conflict has ended.
Macron mentioned on X, “This could help restore trust between ship owners and insurance companies. It is separate from the parties involved in the fighting.”
On Wednesday, Macron spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pajeshkian, indicating his intention to raise the issue with U.S. President Donald Trump as well.
Macron stated, “Restoring peace in the Strait will facilitate discussions on nuclear issues, ballistic matters, and the regional situation. Europe will play its role.”
This announcement comes at a time when Tehran has indicated it is reviewing a proposal from the U.S., which Trump claims could lead to an end to the conflict.
Trump hinted at progress in discussions on Wednesday but warned that if Tehran does not accept the U.S. plan, bombing could resume.
Meanwhile, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot clarified that sanctions on Iran will remain in place until the Hormuz Strait is reopened. He stated, “As long as Hormuz is blocked, there is no question of lifting any sanctions. This cannot be allowed; it cannot be used for toll collection or hostage-taking.”
Barrot emphasized the need for Europe to reduce dependence on resources that could entangle it in unexpected wars and crises. He stressed the importance of decreasing reliance on energy and digital technologies to ensure freedom.
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