France and Saudi Arabia Urge Safe Navigation in Strait of Amid Regional Tensions

Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman concluded a two-day visit to Paris on Monday, issuing a joint call with French President Emmanuel Macron for navigation in the Strait of Hormuz to return to its normal state. In an official statement, the two leaders condemned recent attacks on vessels in the waterway and emphasized the necessity of restoring regular shipping traffic without restrictions, tolls, or direct and indirect threats, in accordance with international law.

This diplomatic appeal coincides with the United States unveiling an expanded set of secondary sanctions targeting Iran to halt maritime assaults. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that nations would face a strict timeline to terminate prohibited activities involving Iran or risk losing access to the dollar-based financial system. Meanwhile, Tehran warned that increased economic pressure would yield counterproductive results, having previously closed the strategic waterway following a joint US-Israeli military action in late February, which disrupted roughly 20 percent of global oil transit.

Addressing broader regional security, President Macron and Crown Prince Mohammed advocated for a negotiated solution regarding Iran's nuclear program and regional escalations. They also denounced attacks by the Houthi militia in Yemen against commercial shipping and Saudi oil infrastructure. President reaffirmed full French solidarity and support for Saudi Arabia against any violations of its territory. Furthermore, the leaders reviewed developments in Israel, Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria, noting the strategic potential of Syria acting as a bridge between Europe, the Gulf, and Asia.

During the visit, four major business and defense agreements were signed, including a $6 billion Saudi investment for manga-themed amusement parks near Paris and enhanced bilateral defense cooperation. The French Economy Ministry and Saudi Communications Ministry established a cooperation framework covering AI, quantum computing, and emerging technologies. Additional commercial pacts included CMA CGM signing a €434 million contract with Red Sea Gateway Terminal in Jeddah, Alstom securing a €500 million contract for Riyadh metro lines, and Saudi Aramco finalizing procurement and technology agreements potentially worth over $3.7 billion with French partners.