French President Emmanuel Macron has disclosed that he held talks with his Iranian counterpart, Masoud Pezeshkian, urging de-escalation and renewed diplomatic engagement amid rising regional tensions.
In a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) handle on March 24, 2026, Macron said he emphasised the urgent need to end what he described as unacceptable attacks against countries in the region. He also stressed the importance of protecting energy and civilian infrastructure, as well as restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
The French leader called on Iran to engage in negotiations in good faith, noting that such dialogue would help create a pathway toward de-escalation. He added that talks would also provide a framework to address concerns of the international community regarding Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programmes, as well as its regional activities.
Macron further urged the Iranian government to facilitate the swift return of two French nationals, Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris, to France.
The development comes amid ongoing international concern over security in the Gulf region and Iran’s relations with Western countries.