On May 6, France's Le Figaro reported, citing sources from the Elysée Palace, that "France has suggested that the issue of opening the Hormuz shipping route be handled separately from other issues and negotiations related to the Middle East conflict, as the matter concerns 'common interests'."
Prompted by Iran's blockade of the strait and the U.S. naval blockade, the closure of the Strait has driven up global oil prices, causing significant economic damage to Europe.
The French proposal to "handle things separately" essentially aims to undermine Iran's strongest economic leverage. By restoring oil flows to stabilize the global economy, France seeks concessions from Iran on core security issues such as its nuclear program.
This approach represents a real-world test of Macron’s long-standing advocacy for "strategic autonomy."
Militarily: France has already deployed the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier to the Red Sea, demonstrating Europe’s capacity for independent military projection, distinct from U.S. influence.
Politically: France has clearly stated it will not participate in U.S.-defined "ambiguous military actions," attempting to carve out an independent "third path" between the U.S. and Iran.
Currently, this initiative faces serious challenges. France cannot reach an agreement without engaging both the U.S. and Iran—the two main parties involved—and must secure acceptance of ceasefire terms from mutually hostile sides, making coordination extremely difficult.
Whether France's proposal succeeds depends entirely on whether the U.S. and Iran are willing to give Europe this "mediator" role.
Thus, although France’s proposal carries positive intent, it lacks practical feasibility.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1864484634205184/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.