Macron Urges Trump to Open Strait of Hormuz Amid Energy Crisis
New York — French President Emmanuel Macron stressed the need to open the Strait of Hormuz to address the escalating global energy crisis during a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the UNGA in New York on September 23, 2026.
The two leaders met on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The discussion focused on addressing what Macron described as an escalating global energy crisis.
Speaking to ABC News, Macron said his main objective was to find the right deal to open the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasized that reopening the waterway was critical to stabilizing energy markets. He asserted that it is in everyone's interest for vessels to transit through the Strait of Hormuz and called for its reopening and respect for international law to be top priorities.
Macron addressed the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, emphasizing that the Strait of Hormuz should not be used for "blackmail" and that reopening the waterway was critical. He argued that the continued closure or restriction of the strait exacerbates global economic instability.
Critique of Regime Change Strategies
During his remarks to ABC News, Macron also criticized the strategy of attempting regime change through military force. He stated that bombing a country to effect political change is not feasible or a good option, noting it is a mistake made several times in past decades.
Macron’s comments came as he outlined his broader diplomatic approach at the UNGA. In a post on X, he wrote that the world's crises do not stop at borders and impact citizens' security and purchasing power.
In his social media post, Macron stated he met with President Trump and President Zelensky to defend interests, uphold international law, and build coalitions for peace, sovereignty, and cooperation.
Macron Questions Gaza Response
While in New York, Macron also addressed the situation in Gaza. He described the conditions there as "shameful" and questioned the international community’s response to the conflict.
Macron noted that claimed peace has not opened up humanitarian deliveries to the region. His remarks highlighted his focus on multiple global hotspots during the UNGA session, linking regional conflicts to broader issues of international law and stability.