France Says Hormuz Naval Activity Is Defensive Amid Iranian Warnings

(MENAFN) The French government says its planned maritime activity in the Strait of Hormuz is strictly defensive, rejecting any claims that it represents an offensive military posture, according to reports.

Government spokesperson Maud Bregeon says on broadcaster that France has consistently maintained a non-aggressive stance regarding its naval involvement in the region.

“We have said it very clearly and consistently from the start: it is an exclusively defensive posture,” she says.

According to reports, France is working alongside the United Kingdom and other partners on efforts aimed at supporting maritime navigation through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Officials describe the initiative as focused on maintaining safe passage rather than military escalation.

“We have taken an initiative to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, again in an exclusively defensive posture, in coordination with the different forces in the region when security conditions allow,” Bregeon says.

Iran, meanwhile, has issued warnings stating that any French or British naval deployment in or near the Strait would be met with a “decisive and immediate response,” according to reports.

Bregeon also stresses that French President Emmanuel Macron has repeatedly clarified France’s position, rejecting any suggestion that the mission carries offensive intent, as tensions continue to rise in the region.

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