Yerevan, Armenia, May 4 — French President Emmanuel Macron called on the United States and Iran to coordinate efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after US President Donald Trump announced a military-guided operation to escort vessels through the strategic waterway. Macron, speaking at a summit of European leaders in Yerevan, said a cooperative approach between Washington and Tehran is the most realistic path to restoring safe navigation. He declined French participation in the US-led operation, saying he would not join a military action whose objectives remain unclear.
Trump unveiled a maritime mission dubbed Project Freedom, saying the effort aims to secure passage for international tankers and cargo ships that have been stalled amid heightened regional tensions. He said several countries asked the United States for help to move their vessels out of the corridor. The president characterized the crews as neutral, described a humanitarian element to the operation — noting reports some ships are low on food and supplies — and said US forces would guide ships out of what he called restricted waters so commercial traffic can resume. The mission was scheduled to begin Monday (Middle East time).
Trump also said his team had informed relevant parties about the plan and that many shipowners have said they will not return to the corridor until navigation is safe. He suggested there have been constructive talks with Tehran but warned that any attempt to block Project Freedom would draw a forceful response.
The announcement followed reports that the White House rejected a 14-point peace framework proposed by Iran to convert a temporary truce into a lasting settlement. US officials appear to be prioritizing immediate tactical and humanitarian measures in the area.
This article is based on syndicated feed reporting and was published as received.
