France told the United Nations Security Council that Iran must make major concessions and undertake a radical shift in its policies to resolve the escalating crisis over the Strait of Hormuz. Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said there could be no lasting solution unless Tehran demonstrated a commitment to peaceful coexistence in the region and allowed its people to determine their own future.

The emergency session, requested by Bahrain, brought together dozens of countries calling on Iran to fully reopen the strategic waterway, through which about one fifth of the world’s oil supply passes. Iran has moved to assert control over the strait and announced plans for a toll system, contributing to rising global oil prices and heightened tensions.

The United States accused Iran of violating international law by laying mines in international waters, describing the actions as criminal and dangerous to global navigation. In response, Iran’s ambassador rejected the accusations, argued that both Iran and the United States are not parties to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and called for credible guarantees against further attacks before ensuring long term stability in the Gulf.

While criticizing Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile activities and its support for armed groups, France also faulted the United States and Israel for initiating military action without a clear objective or legal basis. Nevertheless, Paris said the primary responsibility for the crisis rests with Tehran.