French President Emmanuel Macron stated on Thursday during his visit to South Korea that a military operation to unblock the Strait of Hormuz is not a viable option. He characterised such an operation as both risky and likely to be protracted, declaring, “This was never an option we chose; we consider it unrealistic.”
Macron also addressed remarks by US President Donald Trump about the possibility of the United States withdrawing from NATO. In an interview, Trump called the alliance a “paper tiger.” When asked about the possibility of the US rejoining NATO if it were to exit, Macron replied that such a scenario would be “beyond the possibility of reconsideration.”
Emphasising the importance of commitment, Macron remarked, “If we question our commitment every day, we deprive it of its substance.” He noted that consistent communication from the Trump administration is essential, stating, “There is too much discussion that leads nowhere. We all require stability, calm, and a return to peace. This is not a performance.“
In relation to the ongoing tensions involving Israel, Iran, and the United States, he said, “We must approach this issue with seriousness; if we seek to do so, we cannot present differing statements daily.” The United States has called on their European partners to assist in unblocking the Strait of Hormuz.
