French President Emmanuel Macron is pushing for a rapid launch of an international military mission in the Strait of Hormuz after Washington and Tehran reached an agreement to end the war in Iran.
During an interview with French broadcaster TF1 on Monday, Macron said: "We will first do everything to ensure that this agreement enters into force and that the Strait of Hormuz is peacefully reopened and shipping can resume."
"We are on the ground," he said. "We are ready to act very quickly."
France could deploy its aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, frigates, minesweepers and aircraft in the region "within the next two to three days after confirmation," Macron said. "So together with the Americans and in parallel with the Iranians, we will ensure that this deployment takes place so that the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is peaceful and lasting."
International naval mission with 40 countries
A naval mission led by France and the UK has long been planned and prepared and is due to begin once the fighting officially ends. The aim is to clear mines in the strait and escort merchant ships to ensure safe passage.
More than 40 countries have pledged their support, including Germany.
With a possible deployment in mind, France had previously moved the Charles de Gaulle and accompanying ships close to the Strait of Hormuz.
Other countries such as the UK, Italy and the Netherlands are also already present in the region, Macron added.
