France Urges Reopening of Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions
France, affected by the consequences of the Strait of Hormuz remaining closed, has once again emphasized the necessity of reopening this vital waterway. Jean-Noël Barrot, France’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated that the Strait of Hormuz is located in international waters and that passage of ships must be guaranteed without additional charges.
He stressed that Paris does not want to bear the costs and consequences of a war that, according to him, it did not initiate. The French foreign minister also called for the assurance of “free and non-extortionate passage” through this strategic route, through which a significant portion of the world’s energy transit takes place.
In contrast, Iranian officials have previously emphasized that no tolls are imposed on ships. Esmaeil Baqaei, spokesperson for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the fees charged relate to navigation services and protective measures aimed at safeguarding the environment of the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf, and the Sea of Oman, and should not be considered as tolls.
Paris has also stressed the need for an agreement between Tehran and Washington to end tensions. French officials have stated that Iran and the United States must increase efforts to reach a deal. The Strait of Hormuz, as one of the world’s most important maritime passages, has always played a key role in regional political and economic calculations, and any restrictions there generate widespread international repercussions.
