France has deployed its nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle towards the Red Sea as part of preparations for a possible defensive mission linked to the ongoing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.

Mission focused on navigation security
The French Ministry of Armed Forces confirmed that the warship is travelling south of the Suez Canal and could support efforts to restore safe navigation through the strategically important waterway. Before the conflict, nearly 20 percent of the world’s traded oil passed through the Strait of Hormuz.

French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer are backing a multinational mission aimed at protecting shipping routes once the conflict ends. Officials described the proposed operation as defensive in nature and separate from military activities connected to the war.

Europe pushes diplomatic solution
Macron said restoring stability in the strait could help rebuild confidence among shipping companies and insurers concerned about regional instability. He also stressed that reopening safe passage could support broader negotiations involving Iran’s nuclear programme, missile activities and regional tensions.

The French government has presented the proposal as a possible compromise between Iran and the United States. Under the idea discussed by French officials, Iran would regain unrestricted maritime passage while agreeing to continue negotiations with Washington on major security issues. In return, the US would ease its blockade measures in the region.

US-Iran negotiations continue
The developments come as Iran reviews a proposal from the United States that President Donald Trump claims could help end the conflict. Trump said negotiations were progressing but warned that military strikes could resume if Tehran rejected the proposal.

Iran, however, has played down suggestions that a final agreement is close. Officials in Tehran said they are still reviewing the proposal and have not yet provided a formal response through mediators.

Possible agreement under discussion
Reports suggest both sides are discussing a framework that could include limits on Iran’s uranium enrichment activities in exchange for sanctions relief and the release of frozen Iranian assets. The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz within a set period after any agreement has also reportedly been discussed.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry said discussions remain ongoing and that the details of the exchanged proposals are still under review.

Strategic importance of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical energy routes. Any disruption to shipping through the area has major consequences for global oil markets, trade and energy prices.

European leaders are increasingly seeking ways to stabilise the region while encouraging diplomatic talks aimed at preventing further escalation.