France is repositioning its nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the Charles de Gaulle, and its escort vessels to the Red Sea, signaling preparations for a potential French-British maritime security mission in the Strait of Hormuz. This initiative, championed by Paris and London, aims to restore security in the vital waterway, which has been effectively closed since February 28 following attacks by the United States and Israel, causing significant disruptions to global oil supply. French President Emmanuel Macron stated the operation would be defensive and distinct from U.S. efforts, intended to reassure the shipping industry. The deployment is contingent on a decrease in threat levels and regained confidence among commercial operators, with neighboring states, including Iran, needing to back the operation.