Lee, Macron back Hormuz cooperation, stress 'peaceful' multinational mission

President Lee Jae Myung and French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate on ensuring freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, according to reports. Macron characterized the potential multinational mission as a peaceful endeavor, as South Korea deliberates its involvement in the strategically important waterway.

During their summit at the Elysee Palace in Paris, the two leaders deliberated on Middle East affairs, amidst growing domestic debate in South Korea regarding the government's response to U.S. entreaties for contributions to the strait's security. Macron disclosed that prior discussions with France, potentially involving the U.K., had been held to facilitate reopening of the waterway.

The French president assured that cooperation would prevail once agreement is secured among all parties involved in the multinational mission, which he emphasized was intended to foster peace in the region. The discussions follow as South Korea weighs various options, including military measures, proposed by the United States, though no deployment decision has been finalized.