Macron Focuses on Reopening Strait of Hormuz Amid Energy Shortage Concerns

French President Emmanuel Macron stated that efforts are focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz to ensure freedom of navigation without tolls, in accordance with international law. Macron made the comments during a news conference in Athens with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. He added that panic from geopolitical uncertainty could contribute to energy shortages.

The statements follow remarks by TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne, who said at the World Policy Conference that a prolonged Iran war could lead to global energy scarcity. Pouyanne noted that 20 percent of the world's oil and gas could become inaccessible, affecting countries including those in Asia.

In Iran, reporter Tohid Asadi reported from Tehran that Iranian officials expressed readiness for negotiations but not under imposed conditions. They also indicated preparedness for military action if talks fail, with key demands including security assurances, continuation of the nuclear program, sanctions relief, and war reparations.

Israel's army reported alert sirens in the Menara, Margaliot, and Misgav Am areas due to a rocket attack from southern Lebanon. Israeli media stated three rockets were fired. Lebanon's Health Ministry reported at least four people killed in Israeli raids on Yahmor al-Shaqif in the Nabatieh district.

A leader of Hezbollah’s parliamentary bloc stated that any ceasefire without halting Israeli military activity could enable continued aggression. He referenced the 1983 agreement as a cautionary example that led to civil war divisions.

Iran's Foreign Minister met with Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the army chief in Islamabad. US envoys are expected in Islamabad for meetings, though Iran stated there would be no direct talks. Germany announced it will deploy the minesweeper Fulda to the Mediterranean for a potential mission in the Strait of Hormuz after hostilities end, pending parliamentary approval.

Turkiye expressed willingness to join a demining mission post-war. Meetings at the ambassadorial level in the US involving Israel and Lebanon aim to prepare for direct talks. Lebanon's political leaders support this track for Israeli withdrawal and sovereignty, while Hezbollah seeks to link it to broader regional issues including the US-Israel war on Iran.