A high level call opened fresh diplomatic options after Islamabad talks, hinting at a rare chance to reduce regional tensions. France signalled readiness to act on maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz alongside other partners and to support ceasefire efforts in Lebanon.
French President Emmanuel Macron addressed Masud Pezeshkian with a request to use the open channels of dialogue that emerged after the talks in Islamabad to achieve lasting de-escalation and to conclude an agreement that would provide solid security guarantees in the region with the participation of all involved parties.
The corresponding message comes from his post on X.
“I spoke with Iran’s President Masud Pezeshkian. I urged him to take advantage of the opportunity provided by the discussions initiated in Islamabad to open the path to lasting de-escalation and a robust agreement that would provide reliable security guarantees in the region with the participation of all involved countries”
– Emmanuel Macron
Context of the talks and the security of the Strait of Hormuz
According to Macron, he also stressed the need for the swift restoration of freedom and security of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, and France is ready to join such efforts.
The president noted that it is important to consistently adhere to the ceasefire, particularly in Lebanon, and expressed support for the actions of the Lebanese authorities, which he regards as the only legitimate force to safeguard state sovereignty and determine Lebanon’s future.
On Saturday later, Macron held a phone call with his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdoğan regarding Russia’s war against Ukraine and the situation in the Middle East.
Ultimately, the next steps in coordinating international engagement demonstrate France’s readiness to elevate the issue of security in the Strait of Hormuz to a high level and seek joint solutions that can ensure stability in the region.