France, UK to host Hormuz conference as Germany criticizes Iran-US talks

13/04/2026

France, UK to host Hormuz conference as Germany criticizes Iran-US talks

PARIS (AP), Apr 13: Emmanuel Macron announced that France and the United Kingdom will organize a conference with partner nations to establish a peaceful multinational mission aimed at restoring navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

In a statement, Macron stressed the urgent need to ensure “free and unimpeded navigation” through the key shipping route, adding that the proposed mission would be strictly defensive and separate from parties involved in the conflict. He said the initiative is intended to be deployed as soon as conditions allow, with participation from countries willing to support maritime security.

Meanwhile, Friedrich Merz criticized recent talks between the United States and Iran held in Pakistan, saying they were not adequately prepared. Speaking in Berlin, he said he was not surprised that negotiations in Islamabad failed to produce an agreement, citing a lack of sufficient groundwork.