Macron Calls for Strait of Hormuz Reopening as Energy Crisis Fears Mount

Macron Calls for Strait of Hormuz Reopening as Energy Crisis Fears Mount

French President Emmanuel Macron has reaffirmed efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning that continued geopolitical tensions could destabilise global energy supply chains.

He made the remarks on Saturday in Athens during a joint press conference with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, following renewed warnings from energy industry leaders about potential shortages linked to ongoing conflict in the region.

Macron said international efforts are focused on restoring full freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, stressing that the priority is to ensure safe passage for global energy shipments. He added that instability and panic in markets can worsen shortages, even when physical supply remains partially available. According to him, the goal is a full reopening “in the coming days and weeks” in line with international law, to guarantee unrestricted maritime movement.

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His comments came shortly after the chief executive of TotalEnergies, Patrick Pouyanné, warned that prolonged disruption could trigger a global energy crisis. Speaking at the World Policy Conference in France, Pouyanné said the world risks severe supply constraints if the situation continues for two to three months, noting that about 20 percent of global oil and gas normally passes through the Strait of Hormuz.

He warned that if such volumes remain blocked, global markets could face serious scarcity, with Asian economies likely to suffer significant impacts due to their heavy reliance on energy imports through the route.

Movement through the Strait has reportedly been affected by rising tensions linked to the US–Israel–Iran conflict, with reports of vessel seizures and heightened military activity in surrounding waters. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most critical global chokepoints for crude oil, liquefied natural gas, and other essential goods such as fertilizers and pharmaceuticals.

Macron also noted that several countries have expressed willingness to participate in a multinational maritime security mission led by France and Britain to protect shipping routes once conditions allow. However, international coordination remains complex, with differing positions among global powers on how to secure the waterway.

He stressed that the current crisis reflects broader geopolitical instability and called for urgent de-escalation to restore stability. According to him, the situation highlights how global economies are exposed to conflicts affecting critical maritime routes.

Macron Calls for Strait of Hormuz Reopening as Energy Crisis Fears Mount