France sees Syria as alternative oil route to Hormuz: Minister

• France is exploring Syria as a possible alternative corridor for Gulf oil shipments amid concerns over disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
• The move follows French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Syria and talks on expanding cooperation with President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s government.

France is considering Syria as a potential alternative route for transporting Gulf oil as tensions around the Strait of Hormuz threaten global energy supplies, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said.

In an interview with French network TF1, Barrot said France is working on developing diversified energy corridors to reduce dependence on strategic waterways that could face disruptions.

“Among all the efforts we have made since the start of this crisis, there is the idea of preparing alternative routes so that we are not dependent on blockages here or there,” Barrot said.

The Strait of Hormuz is a major global energy chokepoint, with a significant share of the world’s oil shipments passing through the narrow waterway.

The comments came days after French President Emmanuel Macron visited Syria, where he held talks with President Ahmad al-Sharaa on strengthening bilateral cooperation.

France’s consideration of Syria as an energy corridor comes as countries seek alternative supply routes amid renewed US-Iran attacks around the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns over potential disruptions to oil markets.

A route through Syria could potentially provide Gulf producers with another pathway to international markets, although any project would require major infrastructure assessments, regional coordination, and security guarantees.

France has been pushing for greater engagement with Syria’s new government as part of efforts to support stability and rebuild regional ties.