**French President Emmanuel Macron Holds Back on Military Intervention in Strait of Hormuz** In the midst of escalating tensions in the Middle East, French President Emmanuel Macron has ruled out any immediate French military involvement in securing the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway that links Europe and Asia. Macron made this announcement during a national defence council meeting at the Élysée Palace in Paris. President Macron stated that France would not participate in any military operations aimed at reopening the strait, which Iran has blocked, citing the ongoing conflict in the region. However, he signalled that France could play a role in safeguarding shipping routes once tensions ease. Macron's cautious approach is in line with other European countries like the UK and Germany, which have also shown reluctance to become directly involved in military action in the area. France's stance is significant, given its strategic location in the Sahel region and its historical ties with the Middle East. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital shipping route that is used by many oil tankers and container ships, including those from Nigeria. The crisis in the Middle East has raised concerns about the impact on global trade and the economy. Macron's proposal to establish a naval escort system for ships passing through the strait is a more measured approach to maritime security. He emphasized that any such mission would be strictly separate from ongoing military operations and would rely on coordination rather than force. The French president's statement on social media, "We stand ready in the Strait of Hormuz, alongside our partners, to ensure freedom of navigation when conditions permit," suggests that France is committed to finding a peaceful solution to the crisis. As the situation in the Middle East continues to unfold, Nigeria's economy, which relies heavily on oil exports, is closely watching the developments. Nigeria's oil exports often pass through the Strait of Hormuz, and any disruption to the waterway could have significant economic implications for the country.