France’s President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) remain at odds regarding potential US involvement in an operation to secure shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
During a gathering of heads of state and government in Paris, Macron explained that the aim is to establish a “neutral mission” in the Strait of Hormuz, one that would distinctly separate itself from the warring parties. He stated that significant military assets have already been deployed to the region to prepare for all eventualities. Macron reaffirmed, “Today’s message is a message of hope, and a message of preparation, and a message of unity. Europeans stand alongside the countries in the Gulf, Asian countries, Latin American countries, and those in the Pacific. Thus, the world stands united in its efforts to help international law regain its rightful place”.
Conversely, Merz expressed a desire for US participation. He remarked, “The exploding energy prices must fall as soon as possible, and this war must not become a transatlantic stress test”. Regarding German involvement in such a mission, he cited several prerequisites: a secure legal basis, such as a resolution from the UN Security Council, a decision from the German government, a mandate from the Bundestag, and a viable military concept. “From our perspective, such participation could involve mine clearance or maritime surveillance. We can do that. We will participate in the further military planning discussions taking place and also hope for the involvement of the United States of America if possible”.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump criticized the Europeans. On his personal platform, he wrote, “After the situation in the Strait of Hormuz calmed down, I received a call from NATO asking if we needed assistance. I told them to keep away, unless they only wanted to load their ships with oil. They were useless when needed-a paper tiger”. Instead, he offered thanks to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar for their “great bravery and assistance”.
