Evian (France): A new chapter in global maritime stability began on Wednesday as G7 leaders officially endorsed a multinational defensive coalition led by France and the United Kingdom to safeguard the Strait of Hormuz following a peace deal between the United States and Iran.
In a formal declaration issued during the G7 Summit, leaders reaffirmed that “the right of unimpeded and duty-free transit passage is the cornerstone of international trade.” They also expressed support for the France-UK-led initiative to help restore maritime traffic through the strategically important waterway.
The declaration stated, “We reaffirm that the right of unimpeded and duty-free transit passage is the cornerstone of international trade. We agreed that the multinational and independent defense initiative led by France and the United Kingdom can play an important role in facilitating the resumption of maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz by protecting merchant ships, reassuring commercial shipping operators, and supporting verification of the removal of all mines.”
Earlier, US President Donald Trump said the Strait of Hormuz had “already partially opened” and would be “completely opened” by Friday as part of the agreement reached with Iran. Speaking during a bilateral meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, Trump said, “I am very happy to say the deal’s all signed and the strait is already partially opened. They are doing a little hunt for a couple of mines they’ve already found. But essentially, ships are starting to go out now. On Friday, it will be completely open. We got along very well with Iran.”
In a Truth Social post, Trump added, “Ships are starting to move, many loaded up with Oil, out of the Strait of Hormuz. They are going along the Southern ‘Highway’, which is totally safe, secure, and pristine. There are other areas of travel, also.”
He had earlier announced, “The Deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete. Congratulations to all! I hereby fully authorise the toll-free opening of the Strait of Hormuz and, simultaneously herewith, authorise the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade. Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow!”
