France and Germany urge Iran to halt escalation and support resumption of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz
Paris, July 17 (KUNA) -- France and Germany called on Iran today, Friday, to refrain from any military escalation or activities that could jeopardize ongoing negotiations, and affirmed the necessity of restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law, without imposing any fees on ships.
A joint statement issued by the Elysee Palace stated that France and Germany reaffirmed the need to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz in line with international law, and urged Iran to avoid any steps or military activities that could undermine the trajectory of future negotiations.
It added that Paris and Berlin, in support of the multinational military mission in the Strait of Hormuz led by France and the United Kingdom, are prepared to contribute pre-deployed assets and capabilities as soon as suitable conditions arise.
The statement clarified that this mission could play a significant role in reassuring the maritime shipping sector and helping to reopen the strait, including through verification of mine-clearance operations.
Regarding the Iranian nuclear file, France and Germany emphasized their full support for negotiations aimed at addressing Iran’s nuclear program, reiterating that any final agreement must ensure, in a verifiable manner, that Iran does not develop or possess nuclear weapons. They also called on Iran to urgently return to compliance with its legal obligations concerning nuclear safeguards, particularly by allowing International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors access to all its nuclear facilities.
On the Lebanon file, the statement affirmed France and Germany’s continued commitment to supporting Lebanese state institutions by backing the Lebanese Armed Forces’ monopoly on weapons, disarming Hezbollah, and implementing urgent economic and financial reforms. They also called on all parties to the conflict to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The statement noted the two countries’ support for ongoing efforts regarding possible options following the mandate of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), including continued coordination within the framework of the United Nations and the European Union.
France and Germany welcomed the agreement signed in Washington on June 26 between Lebanon and the Israeli occupation, expressing their readiness to support its implementation and to coordinate on next steps aimed at enhancing Lebanon’s full sovereignty. (End) M.B. / H.S. S.S.
