French President Emmanuel Macron spoke with Donald Trump and the leaders of the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan regarding the war in the Middle East and the Strait of Hormuz, as American negotiations with Iran intensify, his entourage told AFP.
“France is pushing for a diplomatic path and a negotiated solution, with the number one priority being the full and toll-free reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the conclusion of a ceasefire, and then the resumption of negotiations on other issues (nuclear, ballistic, and regional),” a diplomatic source said.
Iran and the United States discussed a breakthrough in their negotiations on Saturday after weeks of tension and diplomatic maneuvering, while remaining cautious about the chances of ending the war in the Middle East. Such an agreement “is very close,” said the American president, estimating the chances of a “good” agreement or a resumption of war at “50-50,” according to American media reports.
Diplomatic contacts have increased in recent hours to try to bring the discussions to a conclusion and avoid a return to war. The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, spoke with Mr. Trump by phone and called for “prioritizing peaceful solutions,” according to his office.
