France and Italy have reportedly opened discussions with Iran to secure safe passage for their ships through the Strait of Hormuz, according to the Financial Times.
The talks, described as tentative, aim to restart oil and gas exports from the Middle East, citing three sources familiar with the matter. Independent verification by other media outlets has not been possible, reports Al Jazeera.
Separately, France is reportedly coordinating with European, Asian, and Gulf Arab states to assemble a coalition to escort tankers through the strait once the security situation stabilizes, Reuters reported.
In 2024, about 6.2 percent of crude oil and 8.7 percent of LNG imported from non-EU countries passed through the strait, according to the Germany-based CESifo research network.
The negotiations reflect growing international concern over the security of one of the world’s most strategic shipping routes amid ongoing regional tensions.