Macron calls military action to reopen Hormuz Strait 'unrealistic'

French President Emmanuel Macron rejected military intervention to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, directly contradicting calls from Donald Trump for allied action to restore passage through the strategic waterway.

Speaking to reporters during a state visit to South Korea, Macron dismissed the use of force as impractical and dangerous. The French leader's comments came after Trump challenged NATO allies to help reopen the strait, which carries approximately one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies.

Some people defend the idea of freeing the Strait of Hormuz by force via a military operation, a position sometimes expressed by the United States, although it has varied

Emmanuel Macron, French President — Al-Monitor

Iran effectively closed the waterway following escalating Middle East hostilities that began February 28, when the United States and Israel launched strikes against Iranian targets. The Iranian response included attacks on Israeli territory, US military bases, and Gulf state facilities, triggering thousands of casualties across the region.

This was never the option we have supported because it is unrealistic. It would take forever, and would expose all those who go through the strait to risks from the guardians of the revolution but also ballistic missiles

Emmanuel Macron, French President — Channel NewsAsia

The French president outlined an alternative approach centered on diplomatic engagement with Tehran. Macron has been working with European partners and other allies to establish a coalition that would guarantee safe passage through Hormuz once current hostilities cease.

His strategy represents a sharp departure from Trump's more confrontational stance toward Iran and reflects broader European skepticism about military solutions in the region.

What we say from the beginning is that this strait must be reopened because it is strategic for energy flows, fertilisers and international trade, but that it can only be done in consultation with Iran

Emmanuel Macron, French President — Channel NewsAsia

The closure of Hormuz has created significant disruptions to global energy markets and supply chains. The strait serves as a critical chokepoint for international commerce, with its blockade affecting not only oil and gas shipments but also fertilizer and other essential commodities.

Macron's public rejection of military action highlights growing transatlantic tensions over Middle East policy. While Trump has criticized NATO allies for insufficient support and threatened to reconsider US participation in the alliance, European leaders have pursued more cautious diplomatic approaches.

The French position reflects broader European concerns about the risks of military escalation in the Gulf region, where Iranian forces have demonstrated their ability to target shipping and infrastructure with ballistic missiles and other weapons systems.

As diplomatic efforts continue, the question remains whether negotiated solutions can succeed where military pressure has failed to restore normal shipping operations through one of the world's most vital maritime corridors.