France Is Against Iran Imposing Any Tolls to Pass Through Hormuz

Summary

French Foreign Ministry spokesman Pascal Confavreux discusses the G7 gathering in Evian, focusing on the Iran cease-fire deal, the Strait of Hormuz reopening, and France's opposition to any tolls. He also addresses European tech autonomy, AI, and ongoing digital services tax negotiations amid US tariff threats.

• France supports the Iran cease-fire agreement and is prepared to deploy minesweepers and military escorts to secure freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
• France strongly opposes any Iranian tolls or fees on ships passing through the strait, citing international law, increased shipping costs, and the risk of setting a global precedent.
• Discussions are underway on implementing the cease-fire and addressing broader regional issues including Iran's nuclear program, ballistic missiles, and proxy forces.
• The spokesman stressed Europe’s need for strategic autonomy in technology, highlighting French AI firm Mistral as a leading European champion, and reiterated that foreign companies must comply with EU regulations.
• G7 leaders will meet with tech CEOs the following day; talks also cover digital services taxes and the US threat of 100% tariffs on French wine, which are described as ongoing and not antagonistic.
• Details of a potential $300 billion Iran reconstruction fund remain unclear; future negotiations will separately address EU/UN sanctions and frozen Iranian assets.