Macron, Saudi crown prince reject navigation fees in Hormuz

French President Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday jointly opposed any fees on navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, calling for restored maritime traffic and condemning recent attacks on vessels in the strategic waterway, according to a joint statement. The two leaders issued the communique following bilateral talks focused on regional security and diplomatic initiatives.

Maritime security and navigation fees

Macron and Mohammed bin Salman stressed "the need to restore navigation in the Strait of Hormuz to normal" and condemned "attacks on vessels in the strait and threats to navigation," the joint statement said. The leaders emphasized their opposition to any direct or indirect fees on shipping through the vital chokepoint.

The strait serves as a crucial artery for global energy supplies, connecting Gulf producers to international markets. Both countries have significant interests in maintaining freedom of navigation through the waterway, according to Al Arabiya.

Iran nuclear negotiations

On Iran, the two leaders stressed "the need to reach a negotiated solution" and reaffirmed their commitment to "a diplomatic solution that guarantees the peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear program," according to the statement. They also called on Iran "to resume cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency."

Diplomatic engagement remains essential for regional stability, the leaders noted. The joint statement underscored Paris and Riyadh's shared position on preventing nuclear proliferation in the Middle East.

Gaza ceasefire and settlement policy

Regarding Gaza, Macron and the Saudi crown prince underlined the importance of creating conditions for a sustainable ceasefire. They welcomed an agreement on the disarmament of Hamas, calling for its immediate implementation.

The leaders also called for "an end to Israel's settlement policy," emphasizing that political solutions remain the only viable path to lasting peace. France and Saudi Arabia have both advocated for a two-state solution to resolve the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

France-Saudi strategic partnership

The two leaders affirmed their intention to pursue "political and diplomatic solutions to conflicts" across the region and reiterated their "ambition for the strategic partnership" between Paris and Riyadh. The meeting marked the latest high-level consultation between the two governments on security and economic files.

Macron and Mohammed bin Salman reviewed ongoing cooperation initiatives and discussed expanding bilateral ties in defense and energy sectors. The talks reflected both nations' commitment to stabilizing regional flashpoints through coordinated diplomatic efforts.