France and Saudi Arabia Join US in Call for 'Normal' Navigation in Strait of Hormuz

French President Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman have issued a joint call for 'normal' navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, condemning attacks on ships in the waterway. They stressed the importance of restoring freedom of navigation, regular shipping traffic, and the absence of any direct or indirect tolls or restrictions on passage, in accordance with international law.

The statement comes as the US has unveiled an expansion of secondary sanctions against Iran, aiming to force it to stop attacking ships in the Strait. The US wants to prevent Iran from closing down the waterway, which handles around 20% of the world's oil transit.

France and Saudi Arabia also called for a 'negotiated solution' to resolve issues with Iran, including its nuclear program, to avoid further escalation and ensure regional security. They highlighted their rejection of any attacks on Saudi territory and discussed various regional issues, including the situation in Israel, Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria.