French President Emmanuel Macron stated in an exclusive interview with ABC News' David Muir that the threat posed by the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz was underestimated. Macron emphasized that Iran discovered it could use the strait as leverage, contributing to a global energy crisis.

Macron's remarks came as he discussed his meeting with President Donald Trump, where opening the Strait of Hormuz and addressing escalating fuel prices were primary objectives. The French president indicated that the United States is uniquely positioned to resolve the issue, stating, "I think the U.S. ... is the one able to fix this issue, and we need you."

When asked if France would commit military assets to reopen the strait, Macron expressed a desire to avoid confrontation but confirmed readiness to be more engaged in protecting transit capabilities. He also voiced criticism of regime change through military action, calling it an unfeasible and historically ineffective option.

Macron directly addressed President Trump's complaints about European allies not contributing sufficiently to U.S. security efforts. He asserted that France is a good ally and respects the U.S., but stressed the importance of strategic consultation before launching military actions. France, he explained, did not join the recent conflict because it was deemed the wrong option.

In a separate discussion with Muir, Macron shared his assessment of Russian President Vladimir Putin's intentions. He expressed disbelief in Putin's claims of seeking peace or not being aggressive toward European nations, stating, "I don't buy when President Putin say years ago he wanted peace and make peace. This is not true."

Macron also conveyed his conviction that President Trump now has a clear understanding of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He noted that Russia is not achieving its objectives, Ukraine is resisting bravely, and continued support for Ukraine is necessary.

Despite occasional disagreements, Macron described his relationship with President Trump as very good. He highlighted that his core conviction remains that European allies should be strategized with before military actions are initiated.

The escalating global energy crisis, marked by spikes in gas, diesel, and jet fuel prices, underscores the critical nature of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for global oil and gas shipments. The French president's comments signal a recognition of the significant underestimation of this strategic vulnerability and a call for unified international action, led by the U.S., to ensure maritime security and stabilize energy markets.