France and Britain Ready toDeploy Joint Naval Mission to Reopen Strait of Hormuz

Issued on: 15/06/2026 – 09:05

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President Emmanuel Macron stated on Monday that a Franco‑British naval mission established to ensure the safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is fully prepared for deployment, following the recent US‑Iran agreement to end hostilities across the Middle East, including in Lebanon. Israel has indicated that it is not bound by the terms of that agreement.

Washington and Tehran announced on Sunday that they have reached a comprehensive cease‑fire agreement, which includes the lifting of blockades on the Strait of Hormuz – a vital waterway through which approximately one‑fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas flows. The agreement, confirmed by a mediator from Pakistan, is scheduled for formal signing in Switzerland on 19 June.

In a statement posted on the social platform X, Macron highlighted that the assets of the Anglo‑French mission are in place and ready for immediate deployment. He emphasized that the resumption of maritime traffic, free of restrictions and tolls, is essential for regional stability and the global economy.

Call for Unrestricted Oil Flow

The agreement, mediated by Pakistan, was swiftly endorsed by both Washington and Tehran, with a signing ceremony planned for 19 June in Switzerland.

“The Deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete,” Trump said on his 80th birthday, announcing full authorization for the toll‑free opening of the Strait of Hormuz and the immediate removal of the US naval blockade.

He added, “Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow!” – a call that has been rephrased here to reflect a professional tone.

Details of the accord remain partially disclosed, particularly regarding Iran’s nuclear program. However, Iran’s state news agency reported that the United States will unfreeze $12 billion of Iranian assets, with a memorandum of understanding outlining the release of $24 billion in frozen funds over a 60‑day negotiation period.

The precise terms of the agreement, including constraints on Iran’s nuclear activities, have not been fully disclosed, and the Trump administration has yet to provide a detailed response.

Israel’s far‑right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir criticized the US‑Iran deal, stating that Israel is not a party to it and that it does not guarantee the country’s security.

“Trump’s agreement does not bind us… we are not party to this agreement. It does not safeguard our security,” Ben Gvir wrote on his Telegram channel. He further insisted that Israel must not withdraw from any territory captured from Hezbollah and must continue to dismantle the group’s infrastructure.

UN Secretary‑General Antonio Guterres described the deal as “a critical step” toward resolving the Middle East conflict.

United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy announced their willingness to lift sanctions on Iran and to work with the United States, Iran, and regional partners to sustain momentum toward a durable diplomatic settlement.

Markets reacted positively to the news; oil prices fell sharply in Tokyo, and Japan’s Nikkei index rose by three percent at the start of trading.

The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz had previously driven up global gas prices, contributing to inflation in the United States and elsewhere, and disrupted supply chains for essential goods such as fertilizers.

(with newswire reports)

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