Although the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle is being returned to its home base in Toulon, a portion of the French Navy will continue its operations in the Middle East.
According to sea-news.az French President Emmanuel Macron announced this on the social media platform “X” while commenting on changes to the operational configuration of his country’s military presence in the region.
According to Macron, France had previously deployed minesweeping forces, including two minesweepers, as well as two frigates and a maritime patrol aircraft to the region. The French President noted that these forces were prepared to operate in coordination with partners to ensure the security of shipping and to restore full navigation in the Strait of Hormuz area.
Macron attributed the adjustments in force deployment to the evolving situation and the progress of diplomatic processes. Specifically, he stated that the memorandum of understanding signed between the United States and Iran on June 17 represents a significant step toward regional stability and reaffirms the importance of ensuring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
Following the lack of concrete results regarding the nuclear program, the United States and Israel launched military airstrikes against Iran on February 28; since that day, Iran has also targeted Israel and U.S. facilities in the region with missiles and drones. A ceasefire agreement was reached between the parties on April 7, mediated by Pakistan.
On June 18, a peace memorandum was signed between Iran and the United States. The memorandum was signed by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and U.S. President Donald Trump, and it entered into force on June 19.
The first round of discussions between Iran and the United States took place on June 21, facilitated by Pakistan and Qatar.
