Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed efforts to prevent renewed escalation between the United States and Iran and safeguard freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz during a phone call on Monday, as Cairo and Paris stepped up coordination on key regional security issues.
According to the Egyptian presidency, the two leaders reviewed ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a comprehensive agreement between Washington and Tehran that would help prevent a return to regional tensions and contribute to restoring stability across the Gulf.
El-Sisi outlined Egypt’s intensive contacts with regional and international stakeholders in support of a diplomatic settlement, reiterating Cairo’s position that regional security must be grounded in respect for international law, state sovereignty and the interests of regional populations.
The discussion comes amid heightened focus on Gulf security and maritime trade routes, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining one of the world’s most strategically important waterways. Roughly one-fifth of global seaborne oil trade passes through the narrow passage, making its security a key concern for international energy markets and global supply chains.
Macron expressed support for efforts aimed at preventing further instability in the Middle East and stressed the importance of maintaining unrestricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. El-Sisi welcomed the French position, according to the statement.
Beyond regional issues, the two presidents reaffirmed the strength of the Egypt-France strategic partnership and discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation. El-Sisi highlighted the growing momentum in relations between the two countries and noted the strong public and official reception accorded to Macron during his recent visit to Egypt, including his participation in the inauguration of the new headquarters of Senghor University in Alexandria.
The leaders also reviewed developments related to the Palestinian issue and the situation in Lebanon, with El-Sisi highlighting the close alignment between Egyptian and French positions on several regional files and France’s support for efforts to achieve a comprehensive and lasting resolution to ongoing crises.
Macron praised Egypt’s role in promoting regional stability and commended the efforts undertaken by El-Sisi to support security and development across the region.
The two leaders agreed to maintain close consultations and coordination as Egypt and France continue to expand cooperation on regional diplomacy, security and broader strategic issues.
