French Macron Rejects Military Option for Strait of Hormuz, Urges Diplomacy

Addis Ababa, April 2, 2026 (ENA) —French President Emmanuel Macron said Thursday that using military force to reopen the Strait of Hormuz would be “unrealistic,” pushing back against suggestions from US President Donald Trump that allies should.

Trump has repeatedly called on partners to take action to secure the corridor, a key artery for global oil supplies and international trade.

Speaking during a visit to South Korea, Macron warned that any military operation in the strait would be both lengthy and highly dangerous.

He highlighted the significant risks posed by Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, including coastal defense systems and ballistic missiles that could threaten international vessels.

The Strait of Hormuz—one of the world’s most vital corridors for oil shipments and global trade, has been heavily disrupted for weeks amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Macron reaffirmed that France does not support a military solution.

Instead, he emphasized that reopening the waterway must come through diplomatic engagement with Iran.

He called for an immediate ceasefire and a return to negotiations, stressing that cooperation with Tehran is essential for long-term regional stability.

In unusually direct remarks, Macron also criticized Trump’s handling of the crisis, accusing him of inconsistency and of undermining international credibility.

 

He warned that repeated criticism of NATO and uncertainty surrounding U.S. commitments could weaken the alliance.

Macron further clarified that France is not involved in ongoing U.S. or Israeli military operations in the region, reiterating that its primary objective is a swift return to peace.

He also dismissed personal comments made by Trump about him and his wife, describing them as inappropriate and below expected standards.

Separately, Trump recalled a private dinner conversation in which he made remarks, stating that Macron was someone “whose wife treats him extremely badly” and adding he was “still recovering from a right to the jaw.”

The comments have drawn criticism for their personal tone amid an already tense geopolitical situation.