French President Emmanuel Macron has said that cooperation with Iran is necessary to ensure the safety of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
He added that France is prepared to assume responsibility for protecting vessels in the strait. President Macron emphasised that such an operation is feasible only once tensions in the Middle East ease.
He said that matters concerning any military mission should involve contact and collaboration with Iran.
Earlier, US President Donald Trump has criticised key Western allies for refusing to support US efforts to secure the Strait of Hormuz, as Iran and Israel continue exchanging strikes across the Middle East.
The conflict has entered its third week, raising fears of wider regional instability and energy disruptions.
President Trump expressed disappointment after countries including Germany, Spain, and Italy declined to send warships to escort oil tankers through the strategic waterway.
