French President Emmanuel Macron and the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman, have officially expressed their opposition to the imposition of any direct or indirect fees on vessels navigating through the Strait of Hormuz. In a joint statement released on Monday, the two leaders emphasized the urgent necessity of restoring normal navigation within the strategic waterway.
Both leaders used the statement to condemn ongoing attacks on vessels in the strait and denounced any threats made against navigation in the area. Addressing the broader regional climate, Macron and the Saudi Crown Prince highlighted the importance of pursuing a negotiated solution regarding Iran. They reaffirmed their shared commitment to a diplomatic approach that ensures the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear program, while simultaneously calling upon Tehran to resume full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Regarding the conflict in Gaza, the leaders underscored the critical importance of establishing the necessary conditions for a sustainable ceasefire. They formally welcomed the agreement concerning the disarmament of Hamas and urged for its immediate implementation. Furthermore, France and Saudi Arabia called for an end to Israel’s settlement policy. The joint statement concluded by affirming the intention of both leaders to continue seeking political and diplomatic solutions to regional conflicts, while reiterating their shared ambition to strengthen the strategic partnership between France and Saudi Arabia.
