Paris: French President Emmanuel Macron announced that his country intends to deploy two helicopter carriers and several frigates to the Middle East region as part of efforts to protect maritime navigation and secure strategic waterways amid escalating military tensions.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Macron explained that France is working with several countries to prepare a joint mission to secure shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, noting that this mission will be launched as soon as the appropriate conditions are met to guarantee safe passage in this vital waterway.

He added that his country seeks to create the necessary conditions to allow for the resumption of safe passage for commercial vessels in the strait, which is one of the world's most important oil and energy shipping routes.

Macron emphasized that France is not part of the attack targeting Iran, stressing that his country's priorities at this stage are focused on protecting French citizens in the region, supporting friendly nations, and ensuring the security of international navigation.