French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that France will not take part in the American military operation “Operation Freedom Project,” aimed at assisting vessels blocked in the Strait of Hormuz.
According to the French leader, Paris is maintaining a strictly defensive stance and does not consider itself a party to the conflict. “We are not participating in it and are taking a purely defensive position to protect our citizens and support our allies,” Macron emphasized.
“Operation Freedom Project,” announced by US President Donald Trump, launched on Monday. It provides for the escort of neutral merchant vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz due to its blockade amid escalating regional tensions. Washington has deployed significant naval and air assets to restore freedom of navigation.
France, along with the United Kingdom, had previously spearheaded a separate international initiative to ensure navigational security in the strait on a multilateral and strictly defensive basis, following the achievement of de-escalation conditions. Paris underscores that it does not support the use of force under current circumstances and advocates for a diplomatic resolution to the crisis.
Macron’s decision reflects the broader stance of European partners, who are seeking to avoid direct involvement in the conflict and to focus on protecting their own interests and global energy supply stability.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, with approximately 20–25% of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports passing through it. Its blockade has led to a sharp rise in energy prices and severe disruptions to global logistics.