France and Allies Prepare ‘Defensive’ Mission to Reopen Strait of Hormuz

As the conflict in Iran enters its second week, France and its allies are preparing a “defensive” mission to safeguard maritime traffic through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The announcement came from French President Emmanuel Macron during a visit to Cyprus on Monday, March 9, 2026, where he discussed regional security with Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

Escorting Vessels and Reopening a Key Trade Route

The mission aims to escort container ships and tankers, gradually reopening the Strait of Hormuz “after the end of the hottest phase of the conflict.” Macron emphasized the importance of this waterway for international trade, as well as the flow of gas and oil, stating that it “must be able to leave this region once again.” [Source: The Times of Israel]

A ‘Purely Defensive’ and ‘Support’ Operation

Macron characterized the operation as “purely defensive” and a “purely support mission,” involving both European and non-European states. [Source: RTÉ] The Dutch government has also pledged support, announcing it would send a frigate to the Mediterranean at France’s request. [Source: The Times of Israel]

Regional Security Concerns

The French President visited the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, deployed to the Mediterranean following Iranian drone strikes on Cyprus. [Source: The Times of Israel] He also warned that an attack on Cyprus would be considered an attack on all of Europe. [Source: Le Monde]

Disrupted Maritime Traffic

Maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial Gulf waterway through which approximately one-fifth of the world’s crude oil passes, has significantly decreased since the outbreak of the conflict on February 28. [Source: Le Monde]

Macron’s Perspective on Iran

Macron stated that regime change in Iran would not occur “through American-Israeli bombings alone.” [Source: Le Monde]